Bondi Beach attack: Dashcam shows Gurmans' bravery

A short, grainy dashcam clip from Campbell Parade captured something unforgettable: Boris and Sofia Gurman stepping forward as chaos began. In the footage, Boris appears to grapple with an armed man and briefly gain control of a weapon before the pair are fatally shot. Family and neighbours say this is who they were-quiet people who looked out for others. Their names were confirmed on Tuesday by Australian media, and officials and community leaders have since spoken of their courage.

Here’s the essential timeline we can stand up. On Sunday 14 December 2025, as families gathered for the first night of Hanukkah beside Bondi Beach, two attackers opened fire. Police say at least 15 people were killed and dozens injured; one alleged gunman died at the scene and the other is in hospital. Authorities have declared it a terrorist incident targeting the Jewish community.

Why do police call this terrorism? Under Australia’s Criminal Code, an act is terrorism when violence is used to advance a political, religious or ideological cause and intimidate the public. Investigators say the evidence points to Islamic State-inspired ideology; officers reported finding homemade IS flags and improvised explosive devices in a vehicle linked to the suspects.

The Gurmans’ actions weren’t the only example of civic bravery. Another bystander, Ahmed al Ahmed, disarmed a gunman and was shot in the process; he is recovering in hospital and has been widely thanked by leaders and locals. Community members lined his shopfront with flowers, and donations to support his recovery have surged.

Victims named so far reflect the breadth of a community at celebration: a 10‑year‑old girl, a British‑born rabbi, a retired police officer, a Holocaust survivor and others who came to sing, light candles and be together. Officials and families have begun sharing their stories, asking that we remember lives lived, not only how they were lost.

Let’s pause for a learning moment. Police use the word “terrorism” with care because it triggers special investigation powers and signals a motive aimed at frightening a section of the public. In this case, leaders have said the Jewish community was targeted on Hanukkah, which helps explain the classification under law.

Another learning point is media literacy. Viral clips travel faster than official updates, so check what reputable outlets have verified before reposting. Major newsrooms and agencies authenticated key videos from the scene, helping separate confirmed events from rumours without amplifying harmful content.

What happens next matters too. Police allege the suspects are a father and son; they’re examining a recent trip to the Philippines and how firearms were obtained. National and state leaders have signalled tougher gun laws will be considered, with the aim of closing gaps exposed by this case.

Communities are responding with care. Vigils have filled Bondi Pavilion and beyond; blood donations are up; neighbours are checking in on Jewish friends and classmates. This is practical solidarity-showing up, listening and rejecting hate while facts are still being gathered.

One final point for our classroom and staffroom readers. Officials have been clear that extremist ideology is to blame-not a faith. When we discuss events like this, name antisemitism, stand against prejudice, and keep compassion front and centre for those grieving.

A last word on Boris and Sofia. Their family describes them as long‑time Bondi locals, married for 34 years, who stepped in because that’s what they did in everyday life-help. Remembering them means learning from their example and supporting those rebuilding in the days ahead.