A deadly terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 14 killed at least 15 people and injured dozens during a Hanukkah gathering. Victims included a child, a Holocaust survivor, a British rabbi, and a retired police officer.
The suspected attackers, identified as father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram, were acting alone and motivated by extremism, according to Australian authorities. Sajid died at the scene, while Naveed remains hospitalized.
Amid the tragedy, civilian Ahmed al Ahmed emerged as a hero. A Syrian-born Australian, Ahmed tackled one of the gunmen, wrestled away his rifle, and prevented further loss of life. He was shot in the arm and hand and is recovering in hospital.
World leaders, including Donald Trump, praised his bravery. A fundraiser in Ahmed’s honor has raised over $1.3 million. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns called him a “real-life hero,” saying his actions undoubtedly saved many lives.