16 people are confirmed dead in Sydney’s Bondi, following a “terrorist incident” at Bondi Beach on Sunday night (December 14th).
Authorities launched a major police and emergency response to an incident at Bondi’s Archer Park, after shots were fired at 6:47pm (AEDT). Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and scenes of chaos as beachgoers and nearby patrons fled for cover. The shooting came at the same time as a Jewish event was being held at the beach, on the first day of Hanukkah.
UPDATE: ‘Genuine Hero’ Bystander Who Tackled Bondi Beach Gunman Identified
Two individuals were taken into custody – a 50-year-old man who is deceased and a 24-year-old man who is in hospital. NSW Police have confirmed they were father and son. The bomb squad was also sent, after an active explosive device was found in a car belonging to the gunmen. Houses in Sydney’s Bonnyrigg and Campsie linked to the gunmen have also been raided by NSW Police.
The death toll has risen to 16 overnight, including a 10-year-old girl. 42 people are being treated at hospitals across Sydney, including two police officers. Their conditions are currently serious.
In a press conference at 10pm (AEDT) on Sunday, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon officially declared it as a “terrorist incident”. Lanyon said: “This type of disgraceful activity, the taking of innocent lives is unacceptable to New South Wales. It’s not our way of life. I’ve been very clear since I’ve been Commissioner that as a police force, we won’t stand for this style of violence.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns said: “What should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters, has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack,” Minns said. “Our heart bleeds for Australia’s Jewish community tonight. I can only imagine the pain that they’re feeling right now to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday.
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“It’s a responsibility of all Australians to wrap their arms around Australia’s Jewish community and help them get through this incredibly difficult period.” He added: “We can’t let these evil people divide Australia up.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the situation in a seperate press conference at 10:15pm (AEDT) on Sunday: “This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith. An act of evil anti-semitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation. An attack on Jewish Australians is an attack on every Australian.”
Several press conferences have been held on Monday, where Minns said the 24-year-old gunman, who has been in hospital in a critical condition, is likely to survive.
Minns also confirmed he will recall parliament to change NSW’s gun laws, after it was revealed the 50-year-old gunman legally owned six firearms.
Minns, Albanese, and Lanyon confirmed an investigation remains underway.
This story is developing.
