U.S. News
Holocaust Survivor Killed Protecting Wife at Hanukkah
Clear Facts
- A Holocaust survivor, Alex Kleytman, was shot and killed during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney.
- Kleytman died protecting his wife, Larisa, during an attack that left 12 dead and multiple injured.
- Police neutralized one shooter, and no children are believed to have been killed.
During a Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, Alex Kleytman, a Holocaust survivor, was killed while shielding his wife from gunfire.
The attack left 12 dead and wounded 29, including two police officers.
Kleytman’s wife, Larisa, witnessed his final moments.
“He pushed his body up because he wanted to stay near me.”
Larisa said.
The couple survived World War II and shared their experiences with Jewish Care in 2023.
Rabbi Eli Schlanger, organizer of the Chanukah by the Sea event, also lost his life.
Schlanger encouraged friends to attend the beach celebration only hours before tragedy struck.
Rabbi Schlanger’s cousin, Zalman Lewis, said
“How can a joyful rabbi who went to a beach to spread happiness and light, to make the world a better place, have his life ended in this way?”
An Israeli citizen was confirmed among the deceased by Israel’s foreign ministry, and another Israeli was injured.
The police responded quickly and killed one of the alleged attackers on site.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stated there were no child fatalities in this event.
This tragedy highlights the ongoing need for security and vigilance at religious and community events. Stand strong, cherish your loved ones, and stay informed.
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