Father and son named as police investigate Bondi attack on Jewish community
A heavy police presence remains at Bondi Beach as investigators continue to piece together what authorities have described as a “massive” and “complex” terrorist attack that unfolded on Sunday evening.
The death toll has risen to 15 after two gunmen opened fire on a crowd gathered to celebrate Hanukkah near Bondi Park. Police have identified the surviving suspect as Naveed Akram, 24, who remains in hospital under police guard. His father, aged 50, was shot dead by police during the exchange of gunfire.
The shooting began around 6:45pm during the Chanukah by the Sea event, held near a children’s playground. Witnesses initially mistook the sound of gunfire for fireworks before panic spread through the crowd, with reports of up to 20 shots fired. Vision from the scene shows the attackers firing from a nearby bridge into the gathering.
Authorities have confirmed the event was targeted at the Jewish community, and the incident is being treated as a terrorist attack. While police have not released a full motive, investigators are examining ideological extremism and antisemitism as part of their inquiries. No broader threat has been identified at this stage.
Dozens of people were injured, including a child and two police officers who were among the first to respond. NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said multiple victims remain in hospital, with several undergoing surgery overnight. Four children were transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital, and more than 100 ambulance and specialist personnel were involved in the response.
Forensic teams continue to comb the crime scene as Sydney mourns the victims of one of the deadliest attacks in recent Australian history, with community leaders calling for solidarity and calm in the days ahead.
