Sydney [Australia], December 15: A passerby has been hailed as a hero for subduing and disarming a gunman during a shooting that killed 12 people at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, on December 14.
This afternoon, a video went viral on social media showing a man in a white shirt sneaking up behind and grabbing a gunman in dark clothing who was firing a rifle in Sydney, New South Wales.
The man managed to subdue the gunman, snatching the weapon and pointing it back at the assailant. The gunman lost his balance and then retreated towards a bridge where a second gunman was standing and firing.
The video also shows another person running to help the man, and a moment later someone runs up and throws an object at the disarmed gunman.
Reuters confirmed that the gunmen in the video were the same people who had been subdued by police. One suspect was shot dead and another is in critical condition following the shooting.
Police said they are investigating whether a third suspect is involved.
The video of the man's courageous act quickly went viral on social media. "An Australian hero (random civilian) wrestled a gun from his attacker and subdued him," one user wrote on social media platform X.
"This Australian man saved countless lives by snatching a gun from one of the terrorists at Bondi Beach. Hero," another account praised.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said it was the most incredible scene he had ever seen. "A man approached a gunman who had been firing into the community and single-handedly subdued him, putting his own life at risk to save the lives of countless others. That man is a true hero, and I have no doubt that many people are alive tonight thanks to his bravery," Mr. Minns said.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the actions of people who "ran to the danger to help others." "These Australians are heroes and their bravery has saved lives," the prime minister said at a press conference.
Australian media reported that the brave man, 43, is the owner of a fruit shop in Sutherland Shire, south of Sydney.
A relative said the man was hit by two bullets in his hand and arm but is recovering well. "We hope he'll be okay, he's a real hero," a family member said outside the hospital in Sydney.
Identifying the suspect
As of the evening of December 14th, Australian officials announced that at least 12 people had died, including one gunman, in the shooting , which has been declared a terrorist act, according to ABC. A second gunman is in critical condition and under police supervision. Additionally, 29 people were injured, including two police officers.
One of the two gunmen has been identified as Naveed Akram, who lives in Bonnyrigg, southwest Sydney. Police have searched his home.
Additionally, police also dealt with a suspicious improvised explosive device near the bridge where the gunmen were standing and firing.
Police have not released the gunman's motive, but the shooting occurred during the traditional Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, and Bondi Beach was the location where the event was scheduled to take place.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has pledged to investigate thoroughly whether there were any gaps in intelligence and police work leading up to the attack.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
