Australia terror attack update: What we know so far

Australia terror attack update: What we know so far

Australian authorities are investigating what police have declared a terrorist attack after two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on Dec. 14, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more. Islamic state flags were found in the attackers' vehicle, according to senior officials. 

New South Wales Policesaid at least 42 people were taken to the hospital, with six reported to be in critical condition.

According to police, the attackers — identified as a father and son — opened fire from an elevated position, shooting toward a parkland area where the celebration was taking place. Verified videos circulating online show crowds running from the beach as gunshots rang out.

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One of the gunmen, a 50-year-old man,was shot and killed by police at the scene, according to National Public Radio. His 24-year-old son was wounded and subdued by bystanders and remains hospitalized under police guard, according to NPR. Authorities have not yet announced formal charges against the surviving suspect.

Two officers were also shot during the incident and were listed Sunday as being in “serious, verging on critical” condition, according to police. 

Police confirmed that a Muslim bystander, later identified as Ahmed al Ahmed — a local fruit shop owner and father of two —tackled one of the attackers, disarmed him and helped prevent further casualties. The footage was caught on camera and circulated across social media. 

Among those killed were two rabbis and a Holocaust survivor, according to NSW Police. Authorities said the youngest known victim was a 10-year-old child. Several families were attending the event when the shooting began.

According to a BBC report, senior officials said two Islamic State (IS) flags were found inside the attackers’ vehicle, a detail that has intensified the terrorism investigation. Police described the shooting as an act of terrorism and said federal counterterrorism agencies are assisting.

According to BBC, the attacker identified by local media reports as 24-year-old Naveed Akram, was known to NSW police and allegedly linked to an IS-associated cell. The investigation remains ongoing.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as “an act of antisemitism and terrorism,” vowing to review and strengthen Australia’s gun laws. 

Vigils have been held across Australia and internationally. In Sydney, the Opera House was illuminated with a Hanukkah menorah in tribute to the victims, while dozens of menorah lightings took place in New York and other cities to honor those killed.

Pope Leo also tweeted, praying “for all those who suffer due to war and violence.” 

This is a developing story.