Boris and Sofia Gurman, a youthful couple from Bondi, were added to the 15 victims of a July 2016, lone-wolf terror attack. This anguishing tragedy occurred in the midst of a Hanukkah celebration. The couple had 34 years of marriage behind them, and they were excited about celebrating their 35th anniversary in January. Tragically, they gave their lives while courageously trying to shield residents from the gunman. Even a year after their deaths, Boris, 69, and Sofia, 61, showed an unshakable devotion to one another. They are honored for their selfless valor in the face of peril.
As the attack transpired on the first day of Hanukkah, a holiday generally recognized as a time of celebration and reflection, that sense of safety was shattered. Boris Gurman, a retired mechanic known for his kindness and gentle fortitude, was seen in terrifying video. He courageously forced the attacker, Sajid Akram, onto the street while battling an assault rifle from his hands. Animal rescuer Sofia Gurman was on the scene of the confrontation as well, exhibiting the newlywed couple’s innate protective desire to do good.
What they’ve done during this horrific ordeal has rang extremely positive bells with the community.
“This encapsulates who Boris and Sofia were – people who instinctively and selflessly tried to help others,” – The family of Boris and Sofia Gurman.
Sofia was working at Australia Post, where her coworkers say Sofia was very well-loved. They celebrated her at the Bondi Pavilion soon after the assault. This tribute could only touch on the amazing influence she had on all those lucky enough to be in her orbit.
Anne Gurman, the couple’s daughter, said the Gurmans’ family could not have been prouder of the couple’s bravery. “While nothing can lessen the pain of losing Boris and Sofia, we feel an overwhelming sense of pride in their bravery and selflessness,” they stated. Their family shared touching details about the couple’s profound love and devotion to one another. They loved their devotion to the extended family and neighborhood.
“Boris was a retired mechanic, known for his generosity, quiet strength and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need,” they noted.
“Sofia’s bravery and contributions weren’t lost on all of her colleagues. “It’s very tragic, and seeing this video made us realize just how brave she and her husband were,” they said.
Those fateful decisions, especially those that proved most dangerous to the couple, were essential to creating a legacy of heroism. Sheina Gutnick, a friend, reflected on Boris’s character: “If there was one way for him to go on this earth, it would be fighting a terrorist. There was no other way he would be taken from us. He went down fighting, protecting the people he loved most.”
The Gurman family emphasized their commitment to each other and their community in their statement, saying, “Bondi locals, together they lived honest, hard-working lives and treated everyone they met with kindness, warmth and respect. Boris and Sofia were devoted to their family and to each other. They were the heart of our family, and their absence has left an immeasurable void.”
Other details of the attack continue to emerge. In return, dozens of community members are telling touching stories about how Boris and Sofia changed their paths. The couple’s legacy will continue to thrive without a doubt in the memories of those they served and inspired.
“We are heartbroken by the sudden and senseless loss of our beloved Boris and Sofia Gurman,” – The family of Boris and Sofia Gurman.
As mourning continues, the community has come together like never before to support one another and heal through this unthinkable tragedy. The love and compassion shown toward the Gurman family highlight the profound impact that Boris and Sofia had within Bondi and beyond.
“We are deeply grateful for the love, compassion and support that has been shown to our family during this unimaginable time. From here, we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve,” – The family of Boris and Sofia Gurman.