Tragedy struck Bondi Beach in Sydney as a terror attack claimed the life of Rabbi Eli Schlanger during a beloved ‘Chanukah by the Sea’ event. Rabbi Schlanger, a cherished figure in the community and an organiser of the gathering, was among the 11 victims who lost their lives to gunmen who opened fire on thousands of attendees.
Rabbi Schlanger, known for his dedication to the Chabad of Bondi, leaves behind a legacy of service and faith. The Chabad centre shared their profound sorrow, remembering him as a beacon of Jewish life for 18 years, alongside his wife, Chaya.
The peaceful celebration turned into chaos, with bystanders reporting a concerning delay in the police response. As shots rang out, the crowd scattered in panic, resulting in 29 injuries, which included two brave police officers and a child. A bystander courageously attempted to stop the shooters, who were eventually neutralised by authorities.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Jewish community and beyond are left mourning a leader who often reminded others to ‘be more Jewish’ in challenging times. Just hours before the attack, Rabbi Schlanger was enthusiastically inviting everyone to the event, highlighting his warmth and commitment to bringing people together.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this senseless act of violence. The spirit of Hanukkah, celebrating resilience and hope, will surely guide the community through this darkness. Stay tuned for more updates.