- Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a long-time community leader, was a victim.
- Schlanger was instrumental in organizing local Jewish events.
- Police are investigating the incident as a terrorist attack.
The first victim identified in the deadly shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach during a Jewish religious event was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a senior figure in the local Jewish community. Schlanger served as an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi for over 18 years and was also a community chaplain, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Widely known for his grassroots work, he played a key role in organising religious and community events.
In an emotional tribute, friend Eliezer Tewel described Schlanger as a constant presence who worked behind the scenes to ensure community gatherings ran smoothly. “He was killed while doing the most basic, kindest part of life,” Tewel wrote, noting the shooting took place during a Hanukkah celebration.
Killed While Serving Community
The attack occurred around 6:30 pm local time as hundreds gathered to mark the first night of the eight-day Jewish festival. Police said two gunmen opened fire, killing 11 people. One attacker was shot dead in retaliatory firing, while several others, including police personnel, were injured.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon described the incident as a “terrorist attack”. Eyewitnesses said nearly 50 rounds were fired into the crowd.
Attacker From Lahore, Pakistan
Authorities identified one of the shooters as 24-year-old Naveed Akram, a Sydney resident originally from Lahore, Pakistan. Investigations into the motive and possible links are ongoing.
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