Bondi Beach shooting: What to know about father and son who killed 15 people
Australia is grappling with shock, grief, and uncomfortable questions after a mass shooting shattered the calm of Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Sunday, leaving 15 people dead in what authorities describe as the country’s deadliest gun attack in nearly three decades.
The attack unfolded during a Hanukkah celebration attended by Jewish families, children, and community leaders—an event designed to spread joy, light, and togetherness. Instead, it became the scene of a devastating act of violence that has shaken Australia’s sense of safety and reignited debate over extremism, antisemitism, and gun control.
What Happened at Bondi Beach?
On Sunday evening, shortly before sunset, crowds gathered near Archer Park and along Campbell Parade, close to Bondi’s iconic shoreline. The Hanukkah event had been widely advertised as a family-friendly Jewish community festival, offering free doughnuts, face painting, and music.
Witnesses say the atmosphere changed abruptly when loud popping sounds rang out from a nearby bridge. At first, some thought they were fireworks. Panic set in seconds later as people realized the sounds were gunshots.
Two gunmen opened fire on the crowd, targeting attendees indiscriminately. Parents fled with children in their arms, leaving behind strollers, bags, and shoes as people scattered across the grass and streets seeking cover.
By the time police intervened, 15 people had been killed. Victims ranged in age from a 10-year-old girl to a Holocaust survivor, underscoring the multi-generational impact of the attack. Among the dead were a British-born rabbi and a retired police officer.
Who Were the Attackers?
Local media later identified the suspects as 50-year-old Sajid Akram and his 24-year-old son, Naveed. Police confirmed the attackers were father and son.
The older man was shot dead by police at the scene. His son was critically injured and remains hospitalized under police guard, where he is expected to face multiple charges if he survives.
Investigators revealed that the men had allegedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, raising serious concerns about radicalization within Australia. Authorities are now combing through their background, digital footprint, and associations.
Crucially, police confirmed the father legally owned the firearms used in the attack. He had held a recreational hunting license since 2015 and was a member of a gun club—an alarming detail in a country known for some of the world’s strictest gun laws.
Acts of Bravery Amid the Chaos
Amid the horror, stories of courage emerged. One bystander, Ahmed al Ahmed, was filmed wrestling a firearm away from one of the attackers. His parents later confirmed he was shot four or five times in the shoulder during the struggle.
He is being hailed as a hero by many Australians, though his family says he is recovering from serious injuries.
A Nation Reckoning With Hate
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation late Sunday, calling the shooting “an act of evil” and vowing to eliminate hate-driven violence.
Australia’s Jewish leaders say the tragedy was not unforeseeable. Antisemitic incidents have surged in recent years, with more than 1,600 reported attacks last year alone. While security patrols around Jewish sites had been increased, community leaders argue those measures were insufficient.
The attack comes amid heightened global tensions over the Israel-Gaza war, with large protests in Australian cities and growing concerns that overseas conflicts are inflaming domestic divisions.
Gun Laws Under Renewed Scrutiny
Although mass shootings are rare in Australia, this attack has prompted urgent political action. Albanese has pledged to accelerate the creation of a National Firearms Register and tighten licensing rules. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns confirmed state-level gun laws will also be reviewed.
Police are investigating how a legally licensed firearm was used in such an attack—and whether warning signs were missed.
As Sydney mourns, authorities are urging calm and warning against retaliation or community-based reprisals. But for many Australians, the question remains painfully unresolved: how did this happen here?
FAQs
Was the Bondi Beach shooting a terror attack?
Authorities are treating it as terrorism-related due to alleged extremist links and the targeting of a Jewish community event.
How many people were killed at Bondi Beach?
Fifteen people were confirmed dead, with multiple others injured.
Were the attackers legally allowed to own guns?
Yes. The father held a recreational hunting license under existing firearms laws.
Is Australia changing its gun laws after the attack?
Yes. Federal and state governments have promised stricter regulations and faster implementation of a national gun register.
Who were the victims?
Victims included children, religious leaders, a Holocaust survivor, and community members attending a Hanukkah celebration.
