Twelve people are confirmed dead in Sydney’s Bondi, following what is now being declared 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 Hannukah.
NSW Police confirmed two individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting. The bomb squad has also been sent in as an exclusion zone has been set up, after an explosive device was found in a car. Per ABC News, a man believed to be one of the shooters, Naveed Akram, has had his home in Bonnyrigg raided by NSW Police.
NSW Police first confirmed ten deaths, which included one of the gunman. 29 people are being treated at hospitals across Sydney, including two police officers. Their conditions are currently serious.
In a press conference at 10pm (AEDT), NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed the death toll has risen to twelve. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon officially declared it as a “terrorist incident”.
“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.
“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.”
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Lanyon said: “As a result of the circumstances of the incident tonight, at 9:36pm this evening, I declared this to be a terrorist incident. 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.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the situation in a seperate press conference at 10:15pm (AEDT): “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.”
Minns, Albanese, and Lanyon confirmed an investigation remains underway.
This story is developing.
