BREAKING: A horrific shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney has claimed at least 10 lives and left 11 others injured as gunmen opened fire during the Chanukah by the Sea celebration on Sunday evening. Police are actively working to disarm a suspected improvised explosive device discovered at the scene, intensifying the urgency of the situation.
The chaos erupted around 6:40 PM local time when two gunmen targeted a crowd gathered for the annual event, marking the beginning of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of panic as attendees scrambled for safety, with some individuals seen lying motionless on the ground, while others were rushed to ambulances on stretchers.
In a swift response, one of the gunmen has been apprehended, while the other was reportedly killed. NSW Police confirmed they are investigating multiple “suspicious items” in the vicinity, which has led to a designated exclusion zone in the area. Authorities urged the public to avoid Bondi Beach as they continue their investigation.
Official statements from NSW Police at 9 PM confirmed the ongoing police operation and reassured the community that there was no active threat following the neutralization of the shooters. The police are examining several suspicious devices, raising concerns about the potential for further danger.
Witnesses recounted harrowing experiences during the shooting. Daniel, a visitor from Brazil, described seeing the gunmen and hiding with friends as chaos unfolded. “A lot of people on the sand were trying to scream for help,” he recalled. “After today, I don’t feel safe anymore.”
“The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing,”
stated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, voicing his thoughts for those affected by the tragedy. NSW Premier Chris Minns echoed these sentiments, calling the reports from the scene “deeply distressing.”
In a statement, Alex Ryvchin, co-chief of the Executive Council of the Australian Jewry, expressed his fear that the incident might have been a targeted attack. “If this is what we think it is, it is our worst fear realized,” he said, emphasizing the emotional toll on a community that gathers for a family-friendly celebration.
International leaders also reacted strongly. Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the shooting as a “very cruel attack on Jews,” offering prayers for both the injured and the deceased.
As emergency services continue to manage the situation, the community remains on edge, grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and the public is advised to stay clear of the area as more updates unfold.
This tragic incident underscores the need for vigilance and community support during times of celebration. Stay tuned for further developments as police work to ensure safety and security in Bondi Beach.
