Image: ABC News
The deadly shooting at Bondi Beach has left Australia and Jewish communities around the world in shock and mourning. At least 15 people were killed when gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah gathering by the sea, turning a celebration of faith and family into one of the country’s darkest days. As authorities continue their investigation, the names and stories of the victims reveal a cross-section of lives united by the tragedy that brought them together.
Victims of Bondi Beach attack
Matilda, 10: The youngest victimTen-year-old Matilda was the youngest person killed in the attack. Family members and teachers described her as a bright, joyful child who brought warmth to everyone around her. She was a student at the Harmony Russian School of Sydney, which said her death had left the school community heartbroken.
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Relatives said her sister, who was with her at the event, is struggling to cope with the loss of someone she was inseparable from.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger: A community leaderRabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, widely known as the “Bondi Rabbi”, was one of the organisers of the Hanukkah event. A British-born father of five, he led the local Chabad mission and was a central figure in Jewish life in the area. Tributes described him as compassionate, deeply committed to his faith and tireless in his efforts to support families and young people.
Alexander Kleytman: A Holocaust survivorAlexander Kleytman, who survived the Holocaust as a child in Eastern Europe, was killed while attending the event with his wife. According to community leaders, he died while shielding her from gunfire. Having later migrated to Australia, he was seen as a living link to history and a reminder of resilience in the face of unimaginable persecution.
Rabbi Yaakov Levitan: Dedicated to Jewish learningRabbi Yaakov Levitan was confirmed among the victims by Chabad. He served as secretary of the Sydney Beth Din and worked at the BINA Center, a Jewish learning institution. He was remembered as a popular coordinator of community activities and a quiet but influential presence in Sydney’s Jewish religious life.Reuven Morrison: A life rebuilt in AustraliaReuven Morrison migrated to Australia from the former Soviet Union as a teenager. In interviews before his death, he spoke of choosing Australia because he believed it would be a safe place for Jewish families. Chabad described him as a successful businessman who devoted much of his time and resources to charity and community causes.Dan Elkayam: Remembered on and off the fieldFrench national Dan Elkayam was confirmed dead by France’s foreign ministry. An IT analyst by profession, he was also an avid footballer and a key member of the Rockdale Ilinden Football Club in Sydney. Teammates described him as talented, popular and deeply committed to the sport he loved.
Peter Meagher: A life of servicePeter Meagher, a former New South Wales police officer, was working as a freelance photographer at the event when he was killed. He had spent nearly four decades in the police force before retiring and remained closely involved in community sport through Randwick Rugby Club, where he was described as “the heart and soul” of the organisation.Tibor Weitzen: A devoted grandfatherSeventy-eight-year-old Tibor Weitzen was attending the gathering with his wife and grandchildren. According to Chabad, he was killed while trying to shield a family friend. His family described him as gentle, optimistic and someone who always saw the best in others.Marika Pogany: A life of service and friendshipMarika Pogany, 82, was named as a victim by Jewish organisations and local media. An active volunteer and bridge enthusiast, she was also remembered internationally after Slovak leaders confirmed her death. Friends said Bondi Beach had been her haven and a place where she felt most at peace.
Boris and Sofia Gurman: A couple hailed as heroesBoris and Sofia Gurman, married for 34 years, were killed during the early moments of the attack. Widely circulated footage appeared to show them attempting to confront one of the attackers. Their family said they were devoted to each other and to their loved ones, and tributes have described them as courageous in their final moments.
Edith Brutman: A voice against prejudiceEdith Brutman, vice-president of the New South Wales branch of B’nai B’rith, was named during a memorial service. She was known for her outspoken opposition to discrimination and her long-standing commitment to Jewish community organisations. Colleagues remembered her as intelligent, principled and deeply passionate about justice.
The victims ranged in age, background and nationality, but each was part of a gathering meant to celebrate faith and togetherness. As Sydney mourns, their stories have become central to a wider reckoning about safety, antisemitism and the impact of violence on ordinary lives gathered in a public place. Go to Source