The tragic shooting at Bondi Beach on December 10, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of two men, Boris Tetleroyd and Adam Smyth, as families gathered to celebrate the first night of Chanukah. Gunmen opened fire during the “Chanukah on the Beach” event, claiming a total of fifteen lives, with thirteen victims publicly identified so far.
Boris Tetleroyd, a member of the Jewish community, was fatally injured in the attack. His son remains hospitalized following serious injuries, as confirmed by his niece, Leia Roitour. In a heartfelt message on a fundraising page created after his death, Roitour expressed the family’s deep sorrow over the sudden and violent loss of their beloved husband and father. She highlighted her uncle’s role as the primary provider for his wife, who now faces life as a widow, while also noting the challenges that lie ahead as they support her injured son during recovery.
Fifty-year-old Adam Smyth, a father of four, was walking along the beach with his wife, Katrina Smyth, when the attack occurred. His family shared their grief, describing how the couple was “living their best lives together” at the time of the incident. Smyth was an avid sports fan, passionately supporting teams such as Liverpool FC, the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League, and the Manly Sea Eagles in the National Rugby League. “We are all trying to come to terms with the senseless shooting, of which Adam was a victim. No words can describe the pain of our loss,” his family stated. They invoked the Liverpool FC anthem, expressing unity in grief with the phrase, “You’ll never walk alone.”
In response to the attack, community members have rallied together to support the victims’ families. A Go Fund Me page for Tetleroyd has been established to assist with medical bills and living expenses as his family navigates the aftermath of this tragedy. The outpouring of support highlights the community’s commitment to standing by those affected during this difficult time.
The attack has sent shockwaves through Sydney and beyond, drawing attention to the ongoing concerns surrounding public safety during community gatherings. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, seeking to provide answers and ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike. As the community mourns, many reflect on the shared experiences that bind them together, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in the face of such violence.
This incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the significance of community connections. As families and friends come together to remember those lost, the resilience of the human spirit shines through, underscoring the power of unity and support in times of crisis.