Deadly Shooting at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event
An incident involving a shooting occurred at Bondi Beach, Sydney, during the initial night of a Hanukkah festival. Authorities reported that two gunmen killed at least 15 individuals, and dozens sustained injuries. The first call to emergency services was logged at 18:47 local time.
Incident Timeline
The Hanukkah event commenced at 17:00 local time. Reports indicate that celebratory music was interrupted by the sound of gunshots and screams shortly thereafter. Verified video footage shows individuals taking cover and gunfire occurring amidst ongoing music from the festival. Additional footage depicts multiple individuals lying on the ground.
The disturbance subsequently extended from the park to the beach area. Witnesses described individuals evacuating the vicinity and reported vehicle collisions as people attempted to leave the scene.
Perpetrators and Intervention
The individuals identified as perpetrators are Sajid Akram, 50, and Naveed Akram, 24. They were observed traversing Campbell Parade and positioned themselves on a pedestrian bridge overlooking the park where the Hanukkah event was held. An expert cited by the BBC indicated that two sporting shotguns were utilized in the attack.
One individual, believed to be Naveed Akram, remained on the bridge, while the other, believed to be Sajid Akram, advanced towards the park on foot, discharging a firearm. A passerby, identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, intervened and disarmed Sajid Akram. Ahmed al Ahmed sustained two gunshot wounds during the event.
Following the disarmament, Sajid Akram reportedly returned to the bridge and resumed firing with a separate weapon.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Police arrived at the scene, leading to the cessation of gunfire approximately two minutes later. Both suspects appeared to be neutralized by police fire. Sajid Akram was confirmed deceased at the scene, while Naveed Akram sustained critical injuries and was transported to a hospital.
The assailants were reported to reside in Bonnyrigg, a suburb of Sydney, and had relocated to a short-term rental in Campsie days preceding the incident. Law enforcement subsequently conducted a raid on the Bonnyrigg residence. Three individuals were arrested during the raid and later released without charges. The Bonnyrigg property remains a focus of the police investigation.