15 Killed in Mass Shooting at Australia’s Bondi Beach During Jewish Festival
Sydney | December 15, 2025
At least 15 people were killed and more than 40 others injured after a mass shooting at Australia’s Bondi Beach during a Jewish religious festival on Sunday evening, prompting a major emergency response and sparking nationwide shock and mourning.
The attack took place during an annual public Hanukkah celebration held along Bondi Beach, one of Sydney’s most crowded and iconic tourist locations. Police said nearly 1,000 people were present at the event when two armed men opened fire, triggering scenes of panic as families and visitors ran for safety.
Witnesses told local media that dozens of gunshots rang out within minutes. Many people sought shelter behind nearby structures, while others attempted to help the injured until emergency services arrived. Authorities urged residents and tourists in the vicinity to remain indoors as the situation unfolded.
The Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting is being described by officials as one of the deadliest public attacks in the country in recent years.
What Police Have Confirmed So Far
New South Wales Police said one of the alleged attackers, a 50-year-old man, was shot dead during a confrontation with officers at the scene. The second suspect, his 24-year-old son, was seriously wounded and remains in critical condition at a Sydney hospital under police guard.
Initial police updates confirmed 10 deaths, including one of the shooters. The toll later rose to 15 as several victims with critical injuries died despite medical treatment. More than 40 people were injured, some with life-threatening wounds.
Senior officers said the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting unfolded rapidly, leaving little time for immediate intervention. Visuals from the scene showed bystanders performing CPR as ambulances and police vehicles lined the beachfront.
Police have not confirmed the motive behind the attack. Counter-terrorism units are assisting investigators as authorities assess whether the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting was a targeted act against the religious gathering or driven by other factors.
Political Leaders React as Australia Mourns
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as “shocking and deeply distressing,” saying federal agencies were working closely with New South Wales authorities to support the investigation and assist victims.
“Police and emergency responders acted swiftly in extremely difficult circumstances. My thoughts are with every person affected by this terrible tragedy,” Albanese said, urging the public to follow official police updates and avoid speculation.
Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said Australians were united in grief following the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting. She described the attack as violence striking “at the heart of an iconic Australian location and a peaceful community gathering.”
“This was meant to be a celebration of faith, hope, and togetherness. Instead, it ended in unimaginable loss,” she said, calling for calm and solidarity as investigations continue.
Messages of condolence also came from state leaders, religious groups, and international figures, reflecting the scale of the tragedy.
Jewish Community Voices Safety Concerns
Jewish organisations said the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting has left the community shaken and fearful, particularly as the attack occurred during a religious celebration held in a public space.
The Australian Jewish Association said it had previously raised concerns about security at large community events. In a statement, the group said many Jewish families are now questioning their safety at public gatherings.
Police have since increased patrols around synagogues, schools, and community centres across Sydney. Support services and counselling have also been made available to victims, witnesses, and families affected by the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting.
Investigation Continues Amid Calls for Calm
As forensic teams continue examining evidence, authorities have appealed for patience and responsible reporting. Police said further verified details about the Australia’s Bondi Beach shooting will be released as the investigation progresses.
The attack has renewed discussions around public safety and security planning for major cultural and religious events in Australia. Officials stressed that any policy decisions would be made after a full review of the incident.
For now, the nation remains in mourning as families grieve the loss of loved ones in a tragedy that has deeply scarred one of Australia’s most recognisable public spaces.
