‘Real-life hero’ recovering after bullet injuries
A Sydney resident who bravely disarmed a gunman during the deadly Bondi Beach attack on Sunday is recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery for multiple bullet wounds, his family has confirmed.
Ahmed al Ahmed (43), a fruit shop owner, was seriously injured while tackling one of the attackers during what authorities have described as a terrorist attack targeting Jewish people during a Hanukkah celebration. At least 15 people were killed, making it Australia’s deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades.
Moment of courage caught on video
Video footage verified by international media shows Ahmed crouching behind a parked car before rushing a gunman from behind. After a brief struggle, he successfully wrestled the firearm away and placed it aside, moments before gunfire continued from another attacker nearby.
Police said the attack was carried out by a 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son. Ahmed was later rushed to St George’s Hospital in Sydney with multiple gunshot wounds to his shoulder and arm.
Leaders hail ‘selfless courage’
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Ahmed for showing “the best of humanity” amid tragedy. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, who visited him in hospital, said his “incredible bravery no doubt saved countless lives”.
Former US President Donald Trump described Ahmed as “very, very brave”, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also paid tribute, calling his actions those of “a brave man”.
Family speaks with pride
Ahmed’s father, Mohamed Fateh Al Ahmed, who recently arrived in Australia from Syria, said his son was shot four to five times while trying to protect others. “I feel pride and honour because my son is a hero of Australia,” he told local media, adding that Ahmed had previously worked with police and instinctively stepped in to help.
Family members said Ahmed has successfully undergone his first surgery, with further procedures likely depending on his recovery.
Community support pours in
A GoFundMe campaign set up to support Ahmed has raised over A$1.1 million within a day, with donors from across the world contributing. Outside the hospital, strangers arrived with flowers and messages of support, reflecting the widespread gratitude for his actions.
As Australia mourns the victims, Ahmed’s courage has emerged as a powerful reminder of how ordinary citizens can make extraordinary choices in moments of crisis.