At least twelve individuals were killed and several others injured during a mass shooting that occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on December 14, 2025. The incident took place during a Jewish holiday celebration marking the start of Hanukkah, drawing hundreds of attendees to the area known as Chanukah by the Sea. Emergency services responded to reports of gunfire on Campbell Parade shortly after 18:45 local time.
Witnesses described a scene of chaos as two gunmen opened fire on the crowd. “You heard a few pops, and I freaked out and ran away,” said Lachlan Moran, a 32-year-old attendee. He recounted how people abandoned their belongings and fled in panic. “Everyone just dropped all their possessions and were running and people were crying, and it was just horrible,” he added.
Upon arrival, first responders fatally shot one of the gunmen, while the other was arrested and is currently in critical condition. New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that the death toll has risen to twelve, with earlier reports indicating eleven fatalities. Additionally, twenty-nine victims were transported to various hospitals, including a child and two police officers, both of whom are in serious condition and undergoing surgery.
Terrorist Attack Declared
Officials have classified the shooting as a terrorist attack due to its targeted nature and the weaponry involved. Lanyon indicated that investigators discovered a vehicle linked to the deceased suspect, which reportedly contained “several improvised explosive devices.” He stated, “The fact that it is the first day of Hanukkah, the types of weapons, and some of the other items we found at the scene – we have found the improvised explosive device in a car which is linked to the deceased offender.”
Furthermore, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns emphasized that the attack was aimed at Sydney’s Jewish community, reinforcing the significance of the event. Lanyon confirmed that a significant investigation led by counterterrorism units is underway, with authorities exploring the possibility of a third gunman being involved.
During the press conference, Minns praised a bystander who bravely tackled one of the suspects and managed to disarm him, stating, “That man is a genuine hero, and I’ve got no doubt there are many, many people alive tonight as a result of his bravery.”
This tragic event has left the community in shock, with many reflecting on the impact of violence during a time meant for celebration and unity. The investigation continues, with local authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
