Gunmen Behind Terror Attack at Hanukkah Event in Australia Were Father, 50, and Son, 24, Police Say

Gunmen, identified as a father and son, carried out a horrific terror attack at a Hanukkah event in Australia according to police reports. The incident took place at Bondi Beach, leaving a devastating toll of 16 dead and at least 40 others injured. The New South Wales Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon, disclosed that the 50-year-old father died at the scene, while the 24-year-old son is currently in critical condition.

The two shooters were confirmed to be the father and son duo, aged 50 and 24, as reported by BBC News and Sky News. The elder man, who held a firearms license with six registered firearms under his name, lost his life during the attack. The tragic event unfolded around 6:47 p.m. local time, when the gunmen opened fire on a crowd at Archer Park during a Hanukkah celebration at the beach.

The victims of this terror attack ranged from 10 to 87 years old. The incident occurred as the Jewish community gathered for the festival of Chanukah by the Sea, a family-oriented event on the first night of the eight-day holiday. The brutality of the attack sent shockwaves through the community and prompted immediate action from law enforcement and emergency services.

Following the deadly shooting, the number of fatalities rose to 16, including a 10-year-old girl, with 40 individuals sustaining injuries. One of the shooters has been identified as Naveed Akram, aged 24, from Sydney. Reports also indicated the discovery of explosive devices linked to the gunmen in a vehicle at the scene, prompting a swift response from police to neutralize the threat.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as “an act of pure evil” and emphasized national unity in the face of such hatred and violence. Flags were ordered to fly at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for the victims. The resilience of the Australian people was underscored by a collective resolve to stand strong against attempts to sow division and fear.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, stories of heroism emerged, with a local man hailed for bravely confronting one of the shooters and preventing further harm. Witness accounts and footage captured the courageous act of the bystander who risked his life to disarm the gunman, ultimately saving many others. The selfless actions of individuals in moments of crisis exemplify the spirit of solidarity and resilience.

As investigations continue and communities come to terms with the aftermath, the nation mourns the lives lost and stands together in defiance of intolerance and violence. The tragic events at Bondi Beach serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance against extremism and the enduring values of unity and compassion in the face of adversity.