Gunfire erupted at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, killing ten people, including one attacker. More than a dozen others suffered injuries during the shooting. A Hanukkah celebration took place at the beach when the attack began. Authorities continue investigating the motive behind the violence.
New South Wales Police confirmed ten deaths after the shooting at Australia’s iconic beach on Sunday. Police said one of the dead was a gunman. Officers reported that another suspected gunman remains in critical condition.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic across the beachfront. Several eyewitnesses saw more than a dozen injured people lying on the ground. They reported blood covering the area and dozens suffering gunshot wounds.
Authorities respond as leaders urge caution
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released a written statement on X shortly 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 said police and emergency crews worked urgently to save lives. He said his thoughts remained with everyone affected by the violence.
He added that federal authorities were working closely with New South Wales Police. He said officials would share updates as investigators confirmed new information. He again urged people nearby to follow police guidance.
Warnings issued as investigations continue
New South Wales Police posted a warning on X around 7:30 pm local time. Officers urged people to take shelter or avoid Bondi Beach entirely. Police acted after receiving reports of a possible shooting.
Videos shared on X and other platforms showed crowds running in panic. Gunshots and police sirens sounded loudly in the background. People fled the area as officers rushed toward the scene.
Around 2,000 people attended the Hanukkah event at the beach. Investigators have not confirmed whether the attacker deliberately targeted the gathering. Police continue examining evidence to determine the motive.
Additional videos on X showed police detaining two suspects on a civilian bridge. Earlier footage appeared to show them firing from what looked like sniper rifles. Eyewitnesses reported hearing more than 50 shots fired at people, vehicles, and nearby areas.
