BREAKING: A shooting at a Chanukah celebration on Bondi Beach, Australia, has left at least three people dead and six injured, with reports of a chaotic scene as attendees fled in fear. The incident occurred earlier today, December 10, 2023, during an event organized for families, which drew around 2,000 members of the Jewish community.
Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots as panic erupted. Eyewitness footage shows attendees scrambling for safety near the children’s playground on Campbell Parade. The area has since been evacuated, and New South Wales Police have established a significant presence, urging the public to avoid the vicinity.
Authorities confirmed that two armed suspects fled the scene initially, but two have since been taken into custody. In a social media update, NSW Police referred to the situation as a “developing incident” and recommended that anyone at the scene take shelter. “We are still asking people in the area to take shelter until we can determine what is happening,” the police stated.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese characterized the events as “shocking and distressing.” He has coordinated with the Australian Federal Police and NSW Premier to ensure that emergency responders are actively working at the scene. “Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives,” he said in a statement.
The tragic attack comes just days after the J7 coalition, an international alliance of Jewish organizations, visited Australia to challenge increasing antisemitism. Jeremy Leibler, President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Members of our community have been murdered. Others have been seriously injured. Families are shattered.” He emphasized that this act of violence is an attack on the very fabric of Australian society.
Leibler further urged for decisive action against the normalization of hatred. “When hatred is normalized, violence follows. Tonight, that warning has become reality,” he said. The community is now focused on supporting the victims and their families while also calling for a robust governmental response.
As investigations continue, the public is advised to stay clear of the area while authorities assess the situation. More updates are expected as officials work to gather further information about the attack and its perpetrators.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for community solidarity and support in the face of such violence. Stay tuned for more updates on this tragic incident.
