Bondi Beach Shooting Survivor Recalls ‘Absolute Massacre’ at Hanukkah Event

A Sydney man described a scene of pure terror at Bondi Beach. He called it an “absolute bloodbath” and a “massacre.” The attack happened during a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday, December 14.

Emergency workers transport a person on a stretcher after a reported shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Baker)

Gunmen opened fire on the crowded event. Families and children were caught in the chaos. According to Reuters, twelve people were killed in the deadly incident.

Official Details Confirm a Targeted Terror Attack

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed the tragic details. He stated that one attacker is dead and another is in critical condition. At least 29 people were injured, including two police officers.

Commissioner Lanyon labeled the violence a terrorist attack. The event was a community gathering for the first night of Hanukkah. Bloomberg reported that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it a targeted attack on the Jewish community.

The Prime Minister vowed a strict crackdown on anti-Semitism. He promised authorities would work to eradicate such hatred. The community in Bondi is large and has been targeted before.

Survivor’s Harrowing Account Draws Chilling Parallel

A witness, who asked not to be named, gave a powerful account to 9News. He was at the event with his own family when the shooting started. He said he saw children and elderly people fall to the ground.

The man revealed he had lived in Israel for 13 years. He survived the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. He never imagined witnessing such violence in Australia, especially at iconic Bondi Beach.

He arrived in Sydney just two weeks ago to work with the Jewish community. His only thought during the attack was for his wife and children, who escaped. His story highlights the profound shock rippling through the nation.

The Bondi Beach shooting has shattered a sense of safety for many Australians. The community now faces a long road of healing and unity. This tragic event underscores the urgent global challenge of combating hate-fueled violence.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: How many people were killed in the Bondi attack?

Twelve people lost their lives in the shooting. Officials confirmed the death toll from the scene. Many more were injured in the violence.

Q2: What happened to the gunmen?

Police report one attacker was killed. The other is in a critical condition in hospital. The investigation into their motives is ongoing.

Q3: Was this officially called a terrorist attack?

Yes, the New South Wales Police Commissioner labeled it a terrorist act. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it a targeted attack on the Jewish community. The response involves federal and state authorities.

Q4: What was the event where the shooting happened?

It was a public Hanukkah celebration on the first night of the holiday. The gathering was held at Bondi Beach in Sydney. It was attended by hundreds of families and children.

Q5: Has the Bondi area been targeted before?

Bondi has a significant Jewish community. Since the October 7 attacks in Israel, there have been reports of targeted incidents in the area. This is, however, the most severe and violent event.