Sydney’s Bondi Beach, a vibrant hub of community and celebration, was forever altered on Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, when a terrorist attack targeted a Hanukkah event, claiming 15 lives and injuring over 40 others. Among the haunting images emerging from the chaos, one has captured hearts worldwide: a Bernese Mountain Dog named Maui standing protectively over her owner’s body, moments after the gunfire subsided. The poignant scene, documented in viral social media footage, underscores the depth of loyalty and the profound loss experienced by the community.
The incident occurred during the “Chanukah by the Sea” gathering, hosted by Chabad of Bondi at Archer Park, a grassy area near the iconic beach. Families, including children enjoying activities like face painting and a petting zoo, were immersed in festive joy when two gunmen—identified as Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24—opened fire from an elevated footbridge around 6:40 p.m. The attack, later declared a terrorist act motivated by Islamic State ideology, left a trail of devastation, with victims ranging from a 10-year-old girl to an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor.
Maui’s owner, who has not been publicly named out of respect for family privacy, was among those killed. Described as a local walking his dogs with his wife, he was caught in the gunfire while near Campbell Parade. Footage circulating online shows Maui, a large and gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, standing steadfast by her owner’s side, undeterred by the surrounding panic as attendees fled and gunshots echoed. Additional clips capture her running frantically through the park, disoriented yet returning to her fallen companion. A local resident later confirmed, “Our friend was Maui’s dad, who was killed. She adored her dad, and my heart breaks for her.”
The distressing visuals sparked immediate concern online for Maui’s safety. By Monday, as the community grappled with grief, Anne-Marie Curry, founder of Arthur and Co. Pet Detectives, launched a public campaign to locate and reunite the dog with her family. Social media users and animal rescue groups amplified the effort, sharing posts to ensure Maui’s well-being. Authorities and volunteers confirmed later that day that Maui had been safely recovered and returned to the victim’s wife, who also survived the attack alongside their other dog, a small white poodle. “Maui was right in the line of fire,” Curry noted, praising the community’s swift response.
The image of Maui’s loyalty has become a powerful symbol of the tragedy’s emotional toll, resonating far beyond Sydney. Social media comments describe the footage as “heart-wrenching” and a testament to “unconditional love,” with many calling for continued support for the affected families and their pets. The scene has drawn comparisons to historical moments of animals standing vigil in crises, underscoring universal themes of devotion amid loss.
Among the identified victims are Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a 41-year-old father of five who organized the event; Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman, 87, who died shielding his wife; and 10-year-old Matilda, whose family moved from Ukraine to Australia. Others include Reuven Morrison, 62, who died confronting the attackers, and French national Dan Elkayam, 27. The diversity of those lost—a retired police officer, community leaders, and everyday attendees—reflects the broad impact on Bondi’s tight-knit community.
Police investigations reveal the gunmen, a father and son from Bonnyrigg, used licensed firearms and had traveled to the Philippines in November 2025, potentially for military-style training. Homemade Islamic State flags and improvised explosive devices found in their vehicle confirmed the ideological motive. Sajid was killed by police at the scene, while Naveed, critically injured, awoke from a coma and faces pending charges. The attack, Australia’s deadliest shooting since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre, has prompted national vows to strengthen gun laws and combat antisemitism.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, alongside New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, addressed the nation, condemning the “act of evil antisemitism” and praising acts of bravery. A notable hero, Ahmed al-Ahmed, a 43-year-old fruit shop owner, disarmed one gunman, sustaining serious injuries but saving countless lives. A GoFundMe for al-Ahmed has raised over $2.4 million, with contributions from figures like billionaire Bill Ackman. Other bystanders, including Boris and Sofia Gurman, a Russian-Jewish couple in their 60s, and Reuven Morrison, died attempting to intervene.
The Bondi community has responded with resilience. Vigils at the pavilion drew thousands, with flowers and candles piling high. Interfaith gatherings emphasized unity, with Jews and Muslims embracing at memorials. Rabbi Ulman, related to victim Eli Schlanger, vowed to continue Hanukkah traditions, planning to light the final candle at Bondi on the holiday’s last night. “We’re going to show the world that the Jewish people are unbeatable,” he declared at Schlanger’s funeral.
Mental health support has been deployed, with NSW Health clinicians on-site and helplines active. Blood donation appointments surged, with nearly 50,000 booked Monday, doubling previous records. Sydney’s Christmas lights switched to white until December 20 as a gesture of respect.
Maui’s story, while a small thread in the broader tragedy, has amplified calls for community care. Animal welfare groups report increased inquiries about supporting pets affected by crises, with some launching drives for supplies. The victim’s wife, now caring for Maui and the poodle, has received local offers of assistance, from dog-walking to emotional support.
Global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, condemned the attack, expressing solidarity. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised al-Ahmed’s bravery while critiquing Australian policies. The international Jewish diaspora, including gatherings in London and Manchester, honored the victims, reinforcing public celebration of faith despite fear.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on healing. First funerals, including those for Rabbis Schlanger and Yaakov Levitan, were held Wednesday, with large crowds expected. Twenty-two survivors remain hospitalized, several in critical condition. The beach, briefly reopened, sees cautious activity amid heightened security.
Maui’s steadfast presence offers a poignant reminder of bonds unbroken by tragedy. Her safe return provides a sliver of relief, reflecting the community’s determination to support one another. Fundraising efforts for victims’ families, including Matilda’s, have gained momentum, with GoFundMe campaigns emphasizing long-term needs like counseling.
Bondi’s spirit endures through collective mourning and acts of courage. The image of Maui, loyal to the end, joins stories of human bravery—al-Ahmed’s tackle, Morrison’s resistance, and countless others who shielded loved ones. As Sydney navigates grief, these moments inspire unity and resolve to rebuild.
