A tragic terrorist attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, has resulted in at least 15 fatalities, among them a 10-year-old girl, a Holocaust survivor, and an elderly couple.
Authorities have labeled the assailants as a father-son team, stating that the attack was influenced by ISIS. The father was killed at the scene, while the son was shot and subsequently treated by police.
Matilda Britvan
The youngest victim was identified as 10-year-old Matilda Britvan. Her aunt, Lina Chernik, described Matilda as a “happy child” with a “big heart,” noting, “Wherever she went, she was like the sun.” Reports indicate that Matilda and her 6-year-old sister were attending the Hanukkah celebration when gunfire erupted. Tragically, Matilda was shot and later succumbed to her injuries in the hospital.
Her teacher, Irina Goodhue, remembered her as “bright, fun, and energetic,” and a GoFundMe page dedicated to her recalled that Matilda reminded everyone of the importance of kindness and compassion.
Alex Kleitman
Also lost in the chaos was 87-year-old Alex Kleitman, a Holocaust survivor from Ukraine, who was at Bondi Beach with his wife, Larissa, also a survivor. It’s reported that Alex was killed while trying to protect her from the gunfire. In a moment of anguish, Larissa expressed her grief, stating, “I don’t have a husband. I don’t know where his body is.”
Rabbi Eli Schlanger
Rabbi Eli Schlanger served as an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi and was instrumental in organizing the “Hanukkah by the Sea” event. He had previously written a poignant letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging for support for the Jewish community. His murder has resonated deeply within the community he had served for 18 years.
Boris and Sofia Gulman
Boris and Sofia Gulman, a couple from Russia, faced one of the attackers directly. Despite their brave attempt to disarm him, tragedy struck as they were both killed. Their planned 35th wedding anniversary was just around the corner. A GoFundMe page created in their memory underlined their kind-heartedness and bravery, reflecting their willingness to help others.
Edith Blutman
Edith Blutman was known for her advocacy against discrimination and served as vice chair of B’nai Brith NSW. Her colleagues described her as passionate and opinionated, demonstrating a strong commitment to justice.
Rabbi Yaakov Levitan
Rabbi Yaakov Levitan was recognized as a vital coordinator within the Jewish community in Sydney. He was known for his kindness and tireless dedication to others. His passing represents a significant loss to the community he enriched.
Tibor Weizen
Another victim, 78-year-old Tibor Weizen, was fondly remembered as a cherished figure within the congregation. He was killed while trying to protect those he loved. His granddaughter expressed the deep impact of his loss on their family.
Marika Pogany
Marika Pogany, aged 82, dedicated nearly 30 years to volunteering for COA Sydney, serving elderly Jewish individuals. Her unwavering kindness and selflessness left a profound mark on those she encountered.
This devastating incident highlights not just the loss of lives, but the profound grief and sense of community shattered in its wake. For many, the memories of loved ones will remain vibrant, urging a continued commitment to kindness in the face of such senseless violence.
