Dashcam video released Tuesday has revealed the extraordinary bravery of Boris Gurman, 69, and his wife Sofia Gurman, 61, who confronted one of the alleged attackers in the initial moments of the incident at Bondi Beach’s Hanukkah celebration on Sunday. The longtime North Bondi residents, a Russian-Jewish couple married for 34 years, attempted to disarm Sajid Akram, 50, as he emerged from his vehicle, ultimately paying with their lives in a display of selflessness that has resonated deeply across Australia and beyond.
The footage, captured by a passing motorist and shared on social media, shows Boris tackling Akram on Campbell Parade after noticing an Islamic State flag draped over the car’s windshield. Boris wrestled a firearm from the suspect’s hands, forcing him to the ground, while Sofia stood by his side assisting in the struggle. Family statements confirm the couple died together shortly after, underscoring the profound bond that defined their life together.
“We are heartbroken by the sudden and senseless loss of our beloved Boris and Sofia Gurman,” the family said Tuesday. “In recent days, we have become aware of footage showing Boris, with Sofia by his side, courageously attempting to disarm an attacker in an effort to protect others. While nothing can lessen the pain of this loss, we feel an overwhelming sense of pride in their bravery and selflessness. This encapsulates who Boris and Sofia were—people who instinctively and selflessly tried to help others.”
Boris, a retired mechanic known for his generosity and quiet strength, and Sofia, an Australia Post employee beloved by colleagues, were approaching milestones: Sofia’s 62nd birthday on Wednesday and their 35th wedding anniversary in January. As Bondi locals, they embodied community spirit, living honest lives filled with kindness toward everyone they met.
The confrontation occurred moments before the father-and-son pair, Sajid and Naveed Akram, 24, proceeded to the nearby footbridge overlooking the “Chanukah by the Sea” event. There, they allegedly discharged firearms into the crowd of around 1,000 attendees enjoying the festival’s first night, resulting in 15 deaths and over 40 injuries. Police classified the act as terrorism, citing extremist inspiration, with homemade flags and devices recovered from the vehicle.
The Gurmans’ actions marked the first civilian intervention, followed by others including Ahmed al-Ahmed, 43, who disarmed Sajid later and sustained injuries while recovering in hospital, and Reuven Morrison, 62, who threw objects at a gunman before losing his life. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised such efforts, visiting al-Ahmed and committing to national reviews on safety and regulations.
Among the deceased were 10-year-old Matilda, the youngest victim; rabbis Eli Schlanger, 41, and Yaakov Levitan; Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman, 87; French national Dan Elkayam, 27; and additional community members from varied backgrounds. Survivors include loyal pet Maui, a Bernese Mountain dog who stood guard near his fallen owner until reunited with family.
Investigations advance, with Naveed Akram regaining consciousness under guard and forensic teams examining timelines. Authorities urge restraint on unverified details while processing the scene, sealed amid lingering holiday elements.
Community response has been unified, with vigils at Bondi Pavilion drawing thousands to lay flowers, light candles, and share interfaith messages. Projections on landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and international tributes affirm solidarity. Fundraisers support victims’ families, medical needs, and recovery initiatives, reflecting widespread empathy.
The Gurmans’ story, emerging through verified footage, highlights instinctive humanity amid crisis. Witnesses describe Boris charging without hesitation, a testament to character shaped by quiet dedication. Sofia’s presence beside him symbolizes their shared life of warmth and respect.
Broader implications prompt discussions on cohesion and prevention. Leaders pledge bipartisan action, informed by expert input on emerging threats. Hanukkah observances continue privately, emphasizing resilience and light prevailing.
Sydney’s iconic beach, a symbol of inclusivity, navigates altered serenity yet enduring spirit. Locals reclaim spaces mindfully, honoring the lost through collective remembrance.
The couple’s legacy endures in family pride and public admiration, a poignant reminder of ordinary individuals rising to extraordinary moments.
As funerals proceed respectfully, focus shifts to healing—counseling for witnesses, support for young survivors like Matilda’s sister, and pathways forward for affected networks.
Australia reflects nationally, committing to fortified frameworks while celebrating acts that mitigated greater harm.
The dashcam capture, now etched in memory, preserves Boris and Sofia’s final stand—a bond unbroken even in adversity.
