From Bystander to Hero: Bondi Beach Shooting Survivor's Brave Act

Mon Dec 29 2025 10:23:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a heroic bid to save lives during a devastating attack at a Jewish event in Bondi Beach, Ahmed al Ahmed recounts his courageous act of confronting a gunman against all odds.

Ahmed al Ahmed, a bystander who bravely tackled a gunman during a shooting at a Jewish event in Bondi Beach, has shared his inspiring story of courage. During the December 14 attack that claimed 15 lives, Ahmed wrestled a weapon from one of the shooters while suffering gunshot wounds. His quick actions potentially saved many lives and have since drawn national recognition from Australia's leaders and communities. Ahmed reflects on his inner drive to act, recalling the emotional turmoil in the moment and the overwhelming support he has received since the tragedy.

Ahmed al Ahmed, the man who disarmed a gunman during a horrific shooting at a Jewish event in Bondi Beach, has shared his incredible story of bravery. In an exclusive interview, he recounted the harrowing moments before he tackled one of the shooters, displaying immense courage in the face of danger.

Footage captured the moment when Ahmed, a Sydney shop owner originally from Syria, bravely approached a gunman attacking attendees at a Hanukkah event on December 14. I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him - 'drop your gun, stop doing what you're doing', he told CBS News.

Despite being shot multiple times by another assailant, Ahmed is hailed as a hero for his quick thinking, which prevented further casualties. My target was just to take the gun from him and stop him from killing innocent people, he expressed.

The attack tragically ended with 15 lives lost, marking Australia's deadliest mass shooting since 1996. The other shooter, Sajid Akram, was killed by police, while his son, who was hospitalized, has been charged with multiple offenses, including murder.

Reflecting on the turmoil facing him in those critical moments, Ahmed recalled the intense emotions pushing him to act. I don’t want to see people killed in front of me... That’s my soul asking me to do that, he shared.

Following the attack, Ahmed was honored at his hospital bedside when community members raised A$2.5 million in support, demonstrating their gratitude for his courage. Australia's Prime Minister and other officials have recognized him as a national hero, underscoring the profound impact of his brave actions.