A shooting incident occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney during a Hanukah celebration on Sunday evening, leaving six individuals injured and prompting a heavy police response. Chabad of Bondi had such a successful first year of Chanukah By The Sea, that they decided to up the ante. It took place right on the Bondi Park playground, from 5 PM to 9 PM.
Witnesses reported hearing at least 10 gunshots around 6:50 PM. This all happened just minutes after NSW police had fielded multiple calls reporting the noise-making occurring in the neighborhood. Emergency services were at the scene within minutes, and six people were treated for serious injuries and taken to area hospitals. Four of the injured were transported to St Vincent’s Hospital. In the process, one rider was taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, with another transported to St George Hospital.
The law enforcement effort is not yet over. Authorities have two people still in custody related to the incident. Authorities are going deep into the investigation to figure out what may have motivated the shooting. Opposition leader Sussan Ley has described the incident as “hateful violence.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was devastated by the news. What he found on the other side of the planet was “shocking and distressing”, he says. Yet he calmed the public. Police and emergency responders are on-site, working around the clock to support victims of this shocking violence.
“The scenes in Bondi are shocking and distressing. Police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. My thoughts are with every person affected.” – Anthony Albanese
Police have warned the public to stay away from the Bondi area while they conduct their investigation. Thankfully, there have been no further reports of such occurrences in adjacent Dover Heights. Community members could not hide their shock at the senseless violence that marred what was supposed to be a joyous occasion.
“This is not the Australia that we know and love,” stated Allegra Spender, reflecting the sentiments of many who attended the celebration. The peaceful gathering was meant to create an atmosphere of unity and togetherness. Yet this horrible incident has totally upended that aim, upping security but producing a level of anxiety among conference goers.
The Bondi Chabad had planned the party as a Hanukah celebration with crafts, games, music, and delicious food. The shooting turned what should have been a happy celebration into devastation. Fear and panic gripped those watching the bewildering and horrifying spectacle take place in real-time.