In a swift act of valor at Bondi Beach, Sydney, a civilian confronted and disarmed an active shooter amidst a Hanukkah celebration on Sunday evening. President Donald Trump, along with global leaders, has praised the courageous actions that potentially saved numerous lives during the tragic event.
Ahmed el Ahmed, a 43-year-old Syrian-born fruit shop owner and father of two, was credited with the selfless act. The incident, which occurred during the Jewish Chanukah by the Sea event, resulted in the unfortunate death of 16 individuals, including a ten-year-old girl, and left dozens more seriously injured.
Prior to the incident, Ahmed and his cousin Jozay Alkanj were passing the festive gathering when they were offered food by the attendees. Opting instead for coffee, they found themselves in the midst of chaos merely ten minutes later as shots rang out. In the critical moments that followed, Ahmed told his cousin, "I’m going to die, please see my family and tell them that I went down to save people’s lives," Alkanj later recounted to the Daily Mail.
Using parked vehicles for cover, Ahmed approached the shooter, identified as 50-year-old Sajid Akram, with a calculated resolve captured on video. The footage shows Ahmed's advance through the car park along Campbell Parade and his decisive sprint toward the gunman, culminating in a physical struggle. Ahmed ultimately wrestled the firearm away from Akram, who retreated after being disarmed.
The second alleged shooter, 24-year-old Naveed Akram, Sajid's son, witnessed the confrontation from a nearby footbridge while armed. Sajid Akram was shot and killed by police at the scene, while Naveed was critically injured and taken into police custody.
Despite sustaining two gunshot wounds to the shoulder, Ahmed's condition was stable as he remained under medical observation. The public's response to Ahmed’s bravery has been overwhelming, with a GoFundMe campaign raising nearly $1 million, including a significant donation from US billionaire Bill Ackman.
The attack has been marked as one of Australia's deadliest mass shootings since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre. Ahmed, who immigrated to Sydney from Syria over a decade ago, has been hailed as a hero by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns for his actions, which undeniably prevented further loss of life.
