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Cover image: Emergency responders at Bondi Beach following the mass shooting. (Credit: CNN via X)
Australian authorities confirm a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son carried out the terrorist attack at Sydney’s iconic beach, killing at least 15 and injuring dozens during a Jewish community celebration.
In a major development following the tragic shooting at Bondi Beach, New South Wales police announced on Monday that the alleged perpetrators were a father and son duo, with no additional suspects being sought after the attack that claimed at least 15 lives during a Hanukkah event.
Sky News reports the latest police briefing:
BREAKING: Bondi Beach attackers were a 50-year-old and 24-year-old father and son. The father, now deceased, …
— Sky News (@SkyNews) December 15, 2025
The attack occurred on Sunday evening around 6:45 p.m. local time near the Bondi Pavilion, where hundreds had gathered for “Chanukah by the Sea,” an annual event organized by Chabad of Bondi to mark the first night of Hanukkah with a menorah lighting and family activities.
Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated during a media briefing that the two offenders were responsible, with the 50-year-old father deceased after being shot by officers and the 24-year-old son in critical but stable condition in hospital under guard.
The father held a firearms license for approximately a decade, with six guns registered to him, matching the number recovered from the scene and related searches.
Details Emerge on the Attackers
Authorities confirmed improvised explosive devices were found in a vehicle linked to the suspects and rendered safe. Raids were conducted at properties in Bonnyrigg and Campsie, associated with the duo.
The death toll stands at least 15, with victims aged 10 to 87, including children and community members such as Rabbi Eli Schlanger. Around 40 people remain hospitalized.
Amid the chaos and fear that unfolded at Bondi Beach, moments of extraordinary courage also emerged. As police rushed to secure the area and emergency services treated the wounded, witnesses described how several bystanders acted instinctively to protect others, helping people flee the scene and offering first aid while authorities worked to regain control.
One act in particular quickly drew international attention: a civilian confronting the attacker directly, risking their own life to stop further violence. The intervention was credited by officials with preventing additional casualties and became a powerful reminder of how individual bravery can make a decisive difference in the darkest moments. Reuters detailed the incident and the widespread praise that followed in the report below.
Bystander who tackled armed man at Bondi Beach shooting hailed as hero — Reuters
A civilian tackled and disarmed an attacker during the Bondi Beach Hanukkah shooting, an act praised by officials and onlookers alike. December 14, 2025
Official Responses and Context
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as a targeted act of antisemitism, convening security meetings and vowing support for the Jewish community.
The attack, declared a terrorist incident, comes amid heightened concerns over antisemitism in Australia and represents one of the deadliest mass shootings since strict gun laws were introduced post-1996 Port Arthur.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are continuing ballistic and forensic analysis, with no motive yet publicly detailed. Increased security measures are in place at Jewish sites nationwide.
As the nation mourns, focus shifts to victim support and community healing in the wake of this devastating event.
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