Tragic Toll: Victims of the Bondi Beach Shooting Identified

Tue Dec 16 2025 23:12:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Bondi Beach shooting during a Hanukkah celebration has claimed at least 15 lives, including children, rabbis, and Holocaust survivors. Memorials pay tribute to those lost.

At least 15 individuals have been confirmed dead following a shooting attack at Bondi Beach during a Hanukkah event, with victims including two rabbis, a child, and various community members. The attack has deeply shocked the local and global Jewish community.

Tragic Toll: Victims of the Bondi Beach Shooting Identified

At least 15 people have been confirmed dead in Sunday's shooting attack at Bondi beach. Many were attending an event to mark the first day of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Authorities have confirmed that two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a 10-year-old girl were among the victims. This is what we know about those identified so far:

Matilda, 10

Authorities confirmed that a 10-year-old girl, named by her family as Matilda, was among the dead. Irina Goodhew, a former teacher of Matilda, described her as a bright and joyful child. The Harmony Russian School of Sydney confirmed her passing, expressing deep sadness. Matilda's sister, who was with her when she was shot, is struggling to cope with the loss.

Rabbi Eli Schlanger

41-year-old Eli Schlanger, known as the Bondi Rabbi, was a key organizer of the event. He was a beloved figure in the community and leaves behind his wife and young children.

Dan Elkayam

French national Dan Elkayam was also killed. He was an active member of the Rockdale Ilinden Football Club and had only moved to Australia last year.

Alexander Kleytman

A Holocaust survivor from Ukraine, Kleytman died while trying to shield his wife from gunfire. He is survived by his wife, two children, and 11 grandchildren.

Boris and Sofia Gurman

The couple, married for 34 years, died attempting to disarm an attacker. Their family praises their bravery and selflessness during the tragic event.

Peter Meagher

Former police officer and freelance photographer Peter Meagher was killed while documenting the event. Remembered as a legend in his rugby club, he dedicated his life to service and community.

Reuven Morrison

Morrison was a successful businessman and community supporter, known for his charitable contributions. He migrated to Australia from the Soviet Union and held a great love for his local community.

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan

Levitan was an influential figure within the Sydney Jewish community, known for coordinating activities and serving in a leadership role at a rabbinical court.

Tibor Weitzen

Weitzen, 78, died shielding a family friend; he was a beloved synagogue member. His family remembers him as the best kind of person.

Marika Pogany

At 82, Pogany was a cherished volunteer and bridge club member cherished by her community, remembered fondly by friends as someone who lived life fully.

Edith Brutman

Brutman was the vice-president of a Jewish organization, known for her advocacy against prejudice. She is remembered for her intelligence and passion.