At least 15 people were killed and dozens more wounded in a mass shooting Sunday evening at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, where hundreds had gathered for a Hanukkah celebration near the iconic shoreline, Australian authorities said.
Police said two armed men opened fire on attendees in a park area near the beach, turning what had been a festive community gathering into a scene of panic and violence. Officers responded quickly, killing one suspect at the scene and taking the second into custody in critical condition. Authorities later classified the attack as an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community during the first day of the holiday.
Investigators identified the attackers as a father and his adult son, who officials said acted alone and were not part of a broader terror network. Authorities said they expect to bring criminal charges against the surviving suspect once his medical condition allows. At least 38 people remain hospitalized, with victims ranging in age from 10 to 87. Emergency responders described chaotic scenes as families and children fled amid gunfire.
Authorities said the older suspect, a 50-year-old man, was shot and killed by police. His 24-year-old son remains hospitalized in a coma. The father had lived in Australia for decades after arriving on a student visa in the late 1990s and legally possessed a firearm through a recreational hunting license. Neither suspect had a known criminal history, though the younger man had previously come to the attention of police several years ago. Intelligence officials said no evidence of radicalization had been found at that time.
Police also confirmed that two improvised explosive devices were discovered at the scene and safely disabled. A bystander who intervened and disarmed one of the attackers was seriously injured and remains hospitalized. Officials praised his actions, saying his bravery likely saved lives.
National leaders condemned the attack and said discussions are underway about strengthening Australia’s gun laws, including potential limits on firearm ownership and tighter licensing requirements. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and that additional details will be released as they become available.
