Boris and Sofia Gurman, a couple married for nearly 35 years, tragically lost their lives while trying to thwart a terror attack at Bondi Beach in Australia. The heroic couple, aged 69 and 61 respectively, were among the 16 individuals who lost their lives in what has been described as the country’s worst mass shooting in 30 years. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, Dec. 14, also left around 40 others injured as gunmen opened fire at approximately 6:40 p.m. local time, as confirmed by the New South Wales Police.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/boris-sofia-gurman-121625-4aff1f6f82904975a395fb823ae3c8f0.jpg)
The Gurman couple’s bravery was captured in a viral dash cam video, where they can be seen attempting to tackle one of the assailants shortly after he emerged from a vehicle displaying an Islamic State flag on the windshield. Being commemorated for their selfless actions, Boris and Sofia Gurman were set to celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary and Sofia’s 62nd birthday in the days following the tragic event. The couple, of Russian-Jewish descent, resided in Bondi and were parents to a son in his thirties.
Boris, known for his generosity, was a retired mechanic, while Sofia had been employed at Australia Post. Their valiant efforts to intervene during the attack were not in vain, as their family expressed pride in their bravery and selflessness. A fundraising campaign initiated to support the couple’s son has garnered over $100,000 in contributions. The Jewish community had gathered at Bondi Beach for Chanukah by the Sea when the attack unfolded, marking the beginning of Hanukkah.
The tragic incident prompted reactions from the New South Wales Government, emphasising unity and support for those affected. Authorities highlighted that the attack targeted the Jewish community on a night meant for peace and joy, condemning such acts of violence and hatred. Police investigations revealed that the suspected gunmen, Sajid Akram, aged 50, and his 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, were not under any terrorism watchlist prior to the attack. While Sajid lost his life at the scene, Naveed was hospitalised in critical condition.
The heartbreaking loss of Boris and Sofia Gurman has deeply impacted their family, friends, and the wider community. Remembered for their courageous actions in the face of danger, the couple’s legacy of bravery and altruism will endure. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the indiscriminate impact of senseless violence, prompting calls for unity in the face of adversity and a firm stance against hate-fuelled ideologies.
As the community mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of the Bondi Beach tragedy, support and solidarity have been extended to those affected by the senseless violence. The Gurman couple’s act of heroism reflects the resilience and compassion that define humanity in times of crisis, underscoring the importance of standing together against acts of terror and division.
The tragic events at Bondi Beach serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the resounding impact of selfless acts of bravery. As the world grieves the loss of Boris and Sofia Gurman, their legacy of courage and compassion will continue to inspire and resonate within the hearts of all who honour their memory.