An Irish reality television star has been hailed a hero for his fearless actions during a terrorist atrocity at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, which claimed the lives of fifteen people on Sunday.
Chaos at a Hanukkah Celebration
The coastal landmark was transformed into a scene of horrific bloodshed after two gunmen opened fire on crowds of more than 1,000 people celebrating Hanukkah in the Archer Park area. The attackers have since been named as Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed Akram.
Sajid Akram was shot dead by police at the scene. His son, Naveed, who awoke from a coma on Tuesday, has now been charged with a total of 59 offences. These include 15 counts of murder and committing a terrorist act.
A Quick-Thinking Rescue by the Sea
Nathan Gallagher, known for appearing on the popular TV series Below Deck Mediterranean, was on a boat near the beach when the gunshots rang out. The Donegal native, who works in the yachting industry, immediately sprang into action.
Displaying remarkable presence of mind, Gallagher steered his vessel to shore and began loading terrified beachgoers onto the boat, ferrying them away from the carnage and out to the safety of the sea.
Taking to Instagram after the incident, he wrote: 'Brought people off the beach/water and headed out to sea. Terrifying and disgusting behaviour.' His mother, Noreen, led tributes to his selflessness, stating: 'So proud of you. You thought about people’s safety before your own.'
Aftermath and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The first funerals for the victims were held on Wednesday. Among them was 41-year-old Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a father-of-five who grew up in London and served as assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. His father-in-law told mourners it was "unthinkable we talk about you in the past tense."
Naveed Akram faced a hearing on Wednesday, where no application for bail was made. His case was adjourned until April 8 for a mention hearing. The charges against him are extensive and include:
- 40 counts of causing wounding/grievous bodily harm with intent to murder
- Discharging a firearm intending to cause grievous bodily harm
- A public display of a prohibited terrorist organisation symbol
- Placing an explosive in/near a building with intent to cause harm
Injuries from the attack were widespread. Twenty people remain in Sydney hospitals, according to NSW Health. Two police officers were among the wounded. Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, was shot in the head and shoulder and has lost vision in one eye. Constable Scott Dyson remains in a critical but stable condition after further surgery.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, after visiting the injured, condemned the 'act of terror and act of antisemitism'. He stated the attack appeared to be ISIS-inspired and vowed to eradicate such hatred from society, pledging to give security agencies whatever powers are necessary.
