Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach During Hanukkah Event Leaves 16 Dead

 

Sydney, Australia — Sunday, December 14, 2025 — A mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach has left at least 16 people dead and more than 40 others injured, police and officials confirmed. Authorities have described the attack as a terrorist act motivated by antisemitism. 

The shooting occurred on Sunday evening, around 6:47 p.m. local time, during the first night of the Jewish festival of Hanukkah at a public gathering known as “Chanukah by the Sea”. Hundreds of people were assembled in Archer Park, adjacent to Bondi Beach, when the attack began. 

Two gunmen opened fire on the crowd from a footbridge overlooking the park. One of the shooters was killed by police at the scene, while the second suspect was wounded and taken into custody, authorities said. People.com

New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the attackers were a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son, and described the incident as a deliberate act of terror. Investigators found improvised explosive devices in a vehicle linked to the suspects, which were later neutralised by bomb disposal units. 

The victims range widely in age, from children to older adults, and include international citizens among those killed and injured. A number of victims were identified as Jewish community members, including rabbis and a Holocaust survivor, according to foreign government and community reports. 

Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire erupted, with hundreds fleeing and seeking shelter. Footage shared on social media showed bystanders trying to help the wounded and one man bravely tackling one of the gunmen, potentially saving more lives despite being injured himself. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the “evil and senseless attack,” calling for unity and solidarity with the Jewish community. Police have urged anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward as the investigation continues. 

Local authorities have increased security around Jewish community events nationwide, and international leaders have also expressed condolences and support for Australia in the wake of the tragedy.