Sydney, Australia – The death toll from the armed attack that targeted a Jewish religious celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, has risen to at least 16 dead and 40 injured.
This is according to what the Australian police announced early Monday morning.
New South Wales police confirmed in a statement via the “X” platform
that dozens of injured people are still receiving treatment in hospitals.
She noted that a number of cases were described as critical,
raising concerns that the death toll could rise in the coming hours.
The statement explained that the shooting occurred during a gathering
to commemorate a religious occasion, amid a large turnout of participants.
This was before the atmosphere turned into a state of panic after hearing the sound of gunfire,
which prompted those present to flee the place.
Police have not yet determined whether the toll includes one of the shooters.
She noted that investigations are still underway to determine
the circumstances and motives behind the attack.
This comes at a time when counter-terrorism units are involved
in gathering evidence and listening to witness statements.
Australian authorities imposed a tight security cordon around the scene of the incident.
Security measures have been strengthened around places of worship and public gatherings,
Amid widespread condemnation of the attack and warnings
of escalating incidents of violence linked to hate speech.
