Mourners Gather to Honor Young Victims of Bondi Shooting

Hundreds of mourners gathered at a Jewish memorial centre in Sydney to pay tribute to Matilda Chernykh, the youngest victim of a tragic shooting that claimed 15 lives. The 10-year-old was attending the Chanukah by the Sea event at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, when the attack occurred. This heartbreaking incident has left the community in shock and mourning.

During the funeral on Thursday, Matilda’s aunt, Lina Chernykh, expressed the urgent need for action against antisemitism. “Take your anger and just spread happiness and love and memory for my lovely niece,” she said, adding her hope that Matilda is now “an angel” spreading good vibes. Lina also revealed that Matilda died in front of her sister during the attack, describing the trauma: “Imagine you see your beautiful little sister that you love just being killed in front of you. They were like twins. They’ve never been separated.”

Matilda’s funeral is one of several services taking place for the victims of Sunday’s violence. At the same time, the funeral for Tibor Weitzen, a 78-year-old who reportedly shielded loved ones during the shooting, was underway. His family fondly remembered him as a vibrant father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Leor Amzalak, his granddaughter, described him as “truly the best you could ask for” and highlighted his unwavering pride and love for his family.

The Chabad mission characterized Weitzen as a “beloved” man who brought joy to those around him. He immigrated to Australia from Israel in 1988, and his legacy will continue through his family.

Another victim, Dan Elkayam, a 27-year-old French national, was at the beach celebrating Hanukkah with friends when tragedy struck. His family issued a heartfelt statement, recalling how Dan lived life fully and intensely. “He loved life – fully and intensely,” they noted. Known for his kind and adventurous spirit, Dan was a certified scuba diver and had a deep connection with nature. His family emphasized their duty to carry forward the light he spread, urging others to continue promoting kindness and compassion in his memory.

Elkayam leaves behind his partner in Australia and is mourned by family in Paris, France, where he was raised. His family described him as deeply proud of his community back home in Le Bourget.

The community’s grief comes as authorities address the violence that unfolded at Bondi Beach. One of the alleged gunmen, Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offenses related to the shooting. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, was shot and killed by police during the incident.

As memorials for the victims continue, the Jewish community and supporters are calling for increased measures to combat hate and violence, ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.