Tragic Events at Bondi Beach: Remembering the Victims

In a heart-wrenching incident at Bondi Beach, Sydney, at least 15 lives were lost during a shooting that occurred on Sunday, an event held to mark the first day of Hanukkah. Among the deceased were two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a ten-year-old girl. This article pays tribute to those identified and delves into their stories.

Matilda, 10 Years Old

Matilda, a bright and joyous child, has been confirmed as one of the victims. Her family identified her to local media, highlighting her vibrant spirit. Irina Goodhew, a former teacher who organized a fundraiser for Matilda’s mother, described her as “a lively girl who lit up the lives of everyone around her.” The Russian Harmony School in Sydney acknowledged Matilda as a former student, expressing deep sorrow on their Facebook page:

“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of a former student who died in the hospital from injuries sustained in the shooting. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic event.”

Matilda’s aunt revealed to ABC News that her sister, who was with her during the shooting, is struggling profoundly with the loss: “They were inseparable; like twins,” she shared.

Rabbi Eli Schlanger

Rabbi Eli Schlanger, aged 41 and known as the “Bondi Rabbi,” played a crucial role in organizing the Hanukkah event. Leading the local Chabad mission, an international Hasidic Jewish organization based in Brooklyn, his death was confirmed by his cousin, Rabbi Zalman Lewis:

“My dear cousin, Rabbi Eli Schlanger @bondirabbi, was killed in today’s terror attack in Sydney. He leaves behind a wife and young children, as well as my uncle, aunt, and cousins… He was truly an amazing person.”

Chabad noted that Schlanger’s youngest child was only two months old. Alex Ryvchin, from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, spoke of him, stating, “He was the kindest, most generous human being I think I’ve ever known.”

Dan Elkayam

Another victim was Dan Elkayam, a French national. France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, confirmed his death, stating, “With immense sadness, we learned that our compatriot Dan Elkayam was among the victims of the terror attack impacting Jewish families gathered at Bondi Beach.” Elkayam had worked as an IT analyst at NBCUniversal and relocated to Australia last year. He was also described as a passionate football fan and a vital member of the Premier League team at Rockdale Ilinden FC:

“He was an extremely talented and popular figure among his teammates. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew him. We will miss him dearly.”

Alexander Kleytman

A Holocaust survivor originally from Ukraine, Alexander Kleytman tragically lost his life while protecting his wife during the chaos. “I have no husband. I don’t know where his body is. No one can give me an answer,” his wife, Larisa Kleytman, told the media outside a Sydney hospital. “Suddenly we heard ‘bang bang’ and everyone fell to the ground. He pushed himself forward to be closer to me,” she recounted. Chabad stated:

“Alexander died protecting her from the bullets of the shooter. He leaves behind his wife, two children, and 11 grandchildren.”

Peter Meagher

A former police officer, Peter Meagher was working as a freelance photographer during the Hanukkah event when he was killed. His rugby club, Randwick, remembered him fondly, with general manager Mark Harrison saying:

“For him, it was simply a catastrophe—being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Mars, as everyone knew him, was a beloved figure and an absolute legend in our club.”

Meagher had dedicated nearly four decades to the New South Wales Police Force and was highly respected by his peers.

Reuven Morrison

Reuven Morrison emigrated to Australia from the former Soviet Union in his teenage years and was known for his philanthropic efforts. Chabad noted that he spent a significant amount of time in Melbourne before discovering his Jewish identity in Sydney. “A successful businessman whose primary goal was to donate his earnings to charities dear to him, especially to Chabad of Bondi,” Chabad reported.

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan

Rabbi Yaakov Levitan’s passing was also confirmed by Chabad, which described him as a “popular coordinator.” He served as secretary of the Sydney Beth Din and was involved with the BINA Centre, a Jewish learning hub.

Tibor Weitzen

At 78 years old, Tibor Weitzen was with his wife and grandchildren during the event when he attempted to shield a family friend and lost his life. Well-respected among the Bondi Chabad community, his granddaughter Leor Amzalak expressed her sorrow to ABC, stating that he “always saw the best in people and will be sorely missed.”

Conclusion

This tragic shooting at Bondi Beach has left deep scars across communities, affecting numerous families and friends. Each victim had a unique story and a profound impact on those around them. Our thoughts are with all those affected during this difficult time.

• At least 15 individuals were confirmed dead, including two rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, and a ten-year-old girl.
• Victims were attending a Hanukkah event when the shooting occurred.
• Tributes have poured in honoring the vibrant lives of those lost.
• Support and condolences have been expressed from various communities and organizations.