Tragedy at Bondi Beach: Mass Shooting at Hanukkah Celebration in Sydney

Sydney, Australia — December 14, 2025

A joyous community event turned into a scene of horror at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening, when gunfire erupted during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration, leaving multiple people dead and many more injured, local authorities and media outlets report.

What Happened

Around 6:50 p.m. AEDT on December 14, two men reportedly dressed in black opened fire during a public Hanukkah event — known as “Chanukah by the Sea” — at Bondi Beach, a beloved coastal destination in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The festival, organized for the Jewish community to mark the first candle lighting of Hanukkah, drew a large crowd of families and celebrants when the shooting began. 

Witnesses captured chaotic scenes of people fleeing in panic as shots echoed near the Bondi Park Playground and surrounding beachfront. Video circulating on social media appears to show individuals firing from an elevated position toward the gathering. 

Casualties and Response

Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, setting up a cordon and urging the public to avoid the area and take shelter while the situation unfolded. 

At least three people have been reported killed as a result of the shooting, according to early reports. 

Numerous others are injured, with ambulance services treating gunshot wounds and transporting victims to hospitals. 

Authorities have taken two individuals into custody, and it remains unclear whether these are the alleged shooters or additional suspects. 

The NSW Police and wider emergency response are still on site managing the aftermath. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the scenes as “shocking and distressing,” emphasizing that emergency responders were working to secure the area and care for victims. 

Community Impact

The attack has sent shockwaves through Sydney’s Jewish community and beyond. Hanukkah — the Festival of Lights — is a celebration of hope, community, and resilience. That such violence struck a peaceful gathering at a public cultural event has sparked widespread condemnation and grief.

Jewish community leaders have called the shooting horrific and deeply traumatic, with reports indicating some community members were among the wounded. 

Ongoing Investigation

At this stage, police are investigating the motive behind the attack and working to piece together what led to the shooting. Authorities have stressed that the situation remains under active investigation, and they continue to appeal for calm and cooperation from the public. 

A Community in Mourning

As this tragedy continues to unfold, thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. Families and friends have been left grappling with loss and trauma on what should have been a night of celebration.

We will update this blog as more information

 becomes available from official sources.