A shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach killed ten people, including one gunman, and injured more than a dozen others. A Hanukkah event was underway at the beach when the attack occurred. Authorities continue investigating to identify the motive behind the violence.
New South Wales Police confirmed ten fatalities from the shooting on Sunday. Police said one suspected gunman remains in critical condition. Officers continue securing the area while investigators gather evidence.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes across the beach. Witnesses reported seeing more than a dozen people lying injured on the ground. Many said blood covered the sand and nearby walkways. Others said dozens of victims suffered gunshot and related injuries.
Leaders and police issue urgent public warnings
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released a written statement on X following the attack. He expressed condolences to victims and their families. He urged the public to follow police directions and remain cautious.
Albanese described the scenes in Bondi as shocking and deeply distressing. He said police and emergency responders are actively working to save lives. He said his thoughts remain with everyone affected by the violence.
He added that federal authorities are cooperating closely with New South Wales Police. He said officials will share updates once investigators confirm more details. He again urged people nearby to rely only on official police information.
New South Wales Police issued a public warning around 7:30 p.m. local time. Police urged residents to seek shelter or avoid Bondi Beach entirely. Officers acted after receiving reports of a possible active shooting.
Eyewitness videos reveal scale of the attack
Videos shared on X and other platforms showed crowds running from the beach. Recordings captured the sound of repeated gunshots and police sirens. People scattered across streets and nearby areas in panic.
Around 2,000 people attended the Hanukkah event at the beach. Authorities have not confirmed whether the attackers deliberately targeted the gathering. Investigators continue examining that possibility as part of their inquiry.
Additional videos showed police detaining two suspects on a civilian bridge. Footage earlier appeared to show individuals firing from elevated positions. The weapons resembled sniper rifles in the recordings.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing more than 50 gunshots during the attack. They said bullets struck beachgoers, nearby civilians, and vehicles. Police continue reviewing footage and witness accounts to reconstruct the incident.
