Footage shows a bystander tackling one of the two alleged gunmen and wrestling a shotgun away from him during the mass shooting at Bondi beach, which killed at least 12 people.
The video shows the alleged gunman standing on a footpath between a grassy area and a parking lot, holding a shotgun and firing into the distance. A bystander, who had been crouching behind a parked car, rushes toward the gunman as he fires, leaps onto him, and wrestles the gun from his hands. The gunman falls to the ground, and the bystander points the weapon at him as the gunman backs away.
As the alleged gunman retreats, the bystander gently places the gun against a tree and raises his hands.
Police said at least 12 people were killed in the attack on a Hanukkah celebration, including one of the shooters. At least 29 others were taken to the hospital. Authorities have declared the incident a terrorist attack.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at a press conference on Sunday night, “This is a targeted attack on Jewish Australians on the first day of Hanukkah, which should be a day of joy, a celebration of faith. The evil that was unleashed at Bondi beach today is beyond comprehension, and the trauma and loss that families are dealing with tonight is beyond anyone’s worst nightmare. Australians have had their lives cruelly stolen, and many have been injured. Our first thoughts are with those in the terrible early hours of their grief.”
He added, “We are also thinking of everyone being treated for their injuries, many of whom are alive right now because of the courage and quick action of the NSW police and the first responders who rushed to their aid—as well as the courage of everyday Australians who, without hesitating, put themselves in danger to keep their fellow Australians safe. We have seen Australians today run toward danger to help others. These Australians are heroes, and their bravery has saved lives.”
Seven News reported that the bystander is a 43-year-old fruit shop owner from the Sutherland Shire named Ahmed. A family member interviewed outside a major Sydney hospital where victims were being treated said the father of two had been admitted after being shot twice. “The doctor said he’s OK, and in the next two hours, they will let us go in and see Ahmed,” the family member said. “He had surgery, but we hope he will be fine. He is a hero, 100%. He’s a hero.”
Another video of the attack showed two men in black clothing crossing a bridge at the beach and firing shots. Multiple gunshots and screams could be heard.
NSW police confirmed that the dead included a man believed to be one of the two gunmen, with the second alleged shooter in critical condition. They are also investigating whether there was a third shooter. Two police officers were among the injured.
NSW Premier Chris Minns told reporters on Sunday night, “This cowardly act of terrifying violence is shocking and painful to see, and represents some of our worst fears about terrorism in Sydney.” He recognized the “extraordinary acts of personal courage and bravery from individuals in our community,” saying, “I think it’s worth remembering that in all of this evil, in all of this sadness, there are still wonderful, brave Australians prepared to risk their lives to help a complete stranger.”
Minns stated that the “attack was designed to target Sydney’s Jewish community on the first day of Hanukkah. What should have been a night of peace and joy celebrated in that community with families and supporters has been shattered by this horrifying evil attack. I can only imagine the pain that they’re feeling right now to see their loved ones killed as they celebrate this ancient holiday. It’s a responsibility of all Australians.”to embrace Australia’s Jewish community and support them through this incredibly difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the bystander who disarmed an alleged gunman during the Bondi Junction attack written in a clear and natural tone
Basic Facts Context
1 What exactly happened at Bondi Junction
On Saturday April 13 2024 a man attacked multiple people with a knife at the Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre in Sydney Six people were killed and several others were injured
2 Who was the bystander that confronted the attacker
The bystander was Damien Guerot a French construction worker living in Sydney He has been widely called a bollard man after the video showed him armed with a bollard
3 Did he actually disarm the attacker
No he did not take the knife away The critical action was that he and another bystander Silas Despreaux confronted the attacker on an escalator forcing him to retreat to a higher level This contained the threat and prevented the attacker from reaching more people allowing police to arrive and shoot him
4 Was there a gun involved
No This was a stabbing attack Early and incorrect reports sometimes used the term gunman but the weapon was a knife The title Bondi beach mass shooting is also inaccurate the attack occurred at a shopping centre in Bondi Junction not the beach
About the Bystanders Actions
5 Why is Damien Guerot being called a hero
He acted with extraordinary bravery by directly confronting an armed attacker who had just killed multiple people His actions without any weapon for his own defense likely saved lives by delaying and containing the attacker
6 What was he thinking in that moment
In interviews Guerot has said he didnt think at allhe just reacted He saw the attacker coming towards people and felt he had to do something to stop him
7 What happened to Damien Guerot after the incident
He was unharmed The Prime Minister of Australia offered him permanent residency for his bravery which he gratefully accepted He and his friend have received widespread public praise and awards for their courage
Broader Questions Implications
