A terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach has left twelve people dead, including one suspected shooter. At least twelve others are injured, with two police officers among the wounded.
Police responded to the incident around 6:45 PM local time. Video verified by the BBC shows two individuals shooting from a bridge toward the beach.
Eighteen victims were transported to hospital, while paramedics treated more at the scene. Authorities have taken two people into custody and are investigating suspicious items found nearby.
New South Wales Police established an extensive crime scene. They confirmed no other connected incidents in Sydney.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the scenes as shocking and distressing. He urged people in the area to follow police instructions.
The attack occurred during a Hanukkah celebration on the beach. Police are treating the incident as a terrorist act.
This marks Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since the 1996 Port Arthur tragedy. That event led to strict national gun reforms, making such large-scale violence particularly shocking for the country.