Sydney mass shooting: How bystander saved lives by tackling gunman
What's the story
A mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, has left 11 dead and several injured. The incident occurred around 6:30pm local time on Sunday during a Hanukkah celebration. Local media reports quoted eyewitnesses hearing around 50 gunshots as two gunmen opened fire. One of the shooters was killed, while the other is in critical condition.
Heroic intervention
Bystander's heroic act captured on video
Amid the chaos, a brave bystander managed to disarm one of the gunmen. The incident was caught on camera and has since gone viral. The clip shows an unarmed man hiding behind parked cars before he rushes toward the gunman from behind. He then grabs him by the neck and takes his rifle away, forcing the gunman to fall flat on the ground as he points it back at him.
Twitter Post
Video of bystander disarming shooter
🇦🇺 🚨 Hero Aussie bystander disarms shooter during Bondi beach terror attack.
— Geppetto 🐂 (@Geppetto_88) December 14, 2025
This man saved countless lives today, and showed true Australian courage.
Not all hero’s wear capes…. pic.twitter.com/6pLvw95Msm
Investigation underway
Ongoing police operation and rising casualties
The New South Wales Police are still investigating the incident. They have confirmed that two people are in custody at Bondi Beach. The police operation is still ongoing, and they continue to urge people to avoid the area. The number of casualties is expected to rise as more information comes in.
Official response
Prime Minister Albanese expresses concern over Bondi Beach shooting
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called the incident "shocking and distressing." He said police and emergency responders are on the ground working to save lives. "My thoughts are with every person affected," he said in a statement. Albanese also spoke with the Australian Federal Police Commissioner and the New South Wales Premier about the ongoing situation.
Community concerns
Australian Jewish Association CEO criticizes government's response
In light of the attack, Robert Gregory, CEO of the Australian Jewish Association, slammed PM Albanese for not doing enough to protect the Jewish community. "What happened tonight is a tragedy but entirely foreseeable," he said in a statement. He added that many Jews are now questioning their future in Australia after this incident.