A shooting erupted at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, killing ten people, including one gunman. More than a dozen others suffered injuries during the attack. A Hanukkah event took place at the beach when the shooting began. Authorities continue investigating the motive behind the violence.
New South Wales Police confirmed ten deaths following the shooting on Sunday. Police said one of the dead was a gunman. Officers reported that another suspected gunman remains in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes across the beach. They said they saw more than a dozen people lying injured on the ground. Witnesses also reported blood covering large areas near the shoreline. Many victims appeared seriously hurt.
Leaders respond as emergency crews mobilize
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a public statement on X after the attack. He expressed condolences to victims and their families. He urged the public to follow police instructions and remain cautious.
Albanese said the scenes at Bondi were shocking and deeply distressing. He noted that police and emergency teams worked on site to save lives. He said his thoughts were with everyone affected by the incident.
The prime minister said federal authorities were working closely with New South Wales Police. He promised further updates once officials confirmed more details. He again urged people near Bondi to follow official police guidance.
Warnings, videos, and unanswered questions
New South Wales Police issued a public warning around 7:30 pm local time. They urged people to seek shelter or avoid Bondi Beach entirely. Police acted after receiving reports of a possible shooting.
Videos circulating on social media showed crowds running in panic. Gunshots and police sirens sounded loudly in the background. The footage captured people fleeing in multiple directions.
Around 2,000 people attended the Hanukkah event at the beach. Authorities have not confirmed whether the attacker targeted the gathering. Investigators continue examining all possible motives.
Additional videos showed police detaining two suspects on a civilian bridge. Earlier footage appeared to show them firing weapons resembling sniper rifles. Eyewitnesses claimed attackers fired more than 50 shots. They said the gunfire struck beachgoers, civilians, and vehicles.
