Bondi Beach Hanukkah Terror Attack Death Toll Rises to 16 as Survivor Dies
Holocaust survivor Eva Geller, 90, has died from medical complications nearly a year after being wounded in a Hanukkah terror attack at Bondi Beach, bringing the death toll to 16.
Nearly a year after the terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, the death toll has risen to 16 following the passing of 90-year-old Holocaust survivor Eva Geller. Geller, who was severely injured by gunfire during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14, passed away overnight Friday at a Sydney hospital. Australian authorities confirmed that her death is directly linked to medical complications stemming from the injuries she sustained in the attack.
Originally from Romania, Geller was among approximately 40 people wounded when two gunmen, suspected of being inspired by the Islamic State, opened fire on participants gathered for the Hanukkah event. Fifteen people, ranging in age from 10 to 87, were killed during the initial assault. One of the attackers, Sajid Akram, was shot and killed by police at the scene.
Remarkable Resilience
Rabbi Aaron Moss, speaking on behalf of the family, described Geller as a remarkably strong and healthy woman prior to the shooting. In recent weeks, she had been hospitalized multiple times due to complications arising from the surgeries she underwent following the attack. Despite doctors telling her she would never walk again after being shot in the leg, Geller demonstrated extraordinary determination and eventually regained the ability to walk using a cane.
"She was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who maintained an optimistic outlook throughout her difficult final months," Rabbi Moss said.
Legal Proceedings
The second suspect, 25-year-old Naveed Akram—the son of the gunman killed at the scene—faces 15 counts of murder, 43 counts of attempted murder, and terrorism-related charges. He has yet to enter a plea. Authorities stated they are awaiting a formal assessment from the state coroner to determine whether Geller's death will result in an amendment to the existing charges. The next court hearing is scheduled for February 24, as prosecutors prepare to transfer the case to the Supreme Court of New South Wales.
