A shooting near a Jewish gathering at Bondi Beach on Sunday left 12 people dead and 29 others injured, including two police officers in serious condition, New South Wales authorities said.
NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed one of the attackers was killed at the scene and the second is in custody, describing the attack as targeted against the Jewish community, Australian Broadcasting Corp reported.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon declared the incident a terrorist attack, noting that over 1,000 people had gathered to celebrate Hanukkah when the shooting occurred. Many victims were forced to take cover behind buildings, vehicles, and natural barriers.
Authorities said there is no longer an active threat but urged residents to avoid the area as emergency operations continue. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with gunfire striking near women, children, and other beachgoers.
One gunman, identified as Narveed Akram from Sydney’s south-west, is under investigation while police conducted raids at his home. Hospitals in Sydney treated multiple victims, several in critical condition.
The attack, occurring on the first night of Chanukah, has been condemned by Jewish community leaders and federal politicians as a “terror attack” and “horrifying tragedy.” Authorities continue to investigate and secure the area.