Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach Hanukkah Event Kills 12, Sparks Terror Probe
Gunfire erupted at Archer Park near Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, triggering mass panic as families fled the area during a Hanukkah celebration. Police confirmed 12 people were killed at the scene, including one of the attackers. A second suspect remains in critical condition, while investigators are examining whether a third gunman was involved.
At least 29 people, including children, were injured and taken to hospitals across Sydney. Two police officers were also shot during the response. Witnesses said two men exited a vehicle on Campbell Parade around 6.40pm and opened fire near the beach. Video footage appears to show attackers dressed in black firing into crowds, with one positioned on a nearby pedestrian bridge shooting downward.
In one widely shared clip, a bystander is seen tackling one of the gunmen and disarming him. Drone footage later captured the final moments on the bridge, showing one attacker shot and collapsing, while another lay motionless. Police reported the use of semiautomatic firearms, multiple magazines and ammunition belts, with up to 50 rounds fired. At least three weapons were recovered.
The attack occurred during Chanukah by the Sea, a family focused event attended by around 200 people. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the shooting appeared to deliberately target Sydney’s Jewish community. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee apologised to victims and ordered an urgent investigation.
Emergency services deployed more than 30 ambulances and helicopter paramedics. With insufficient stretchers, some victims were carried away on surfboards. Police later raided a home in Sydney’s southwest believed to be linked to the suspects and reported discovering a vehicle containing suspected improvised explosive devices. Searches continue for possible live bombs.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as an act of antisemitic terrorism and praised civilians who ran toward danger to help others. International leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community.
Authorities are investigating the motive, weapons sourcing and broader network behind the attack, as Australia confronts one of its deadliest mass shootings in years despite strict gun laws.
