Liverpool fan named as one among 15 victims of Bondi Beach terror assault as household have ‘no phrases’
Adam Smyth, 50, was walking at the beach with his wife Katrina when he was shot dead in the senseless act of terrorism. His family have paid tribute to the ‘generous and kind’ father
Adam Smyth, a passionate Liverpool supporter, has been identified as one of the casualties in the devastating Bondi Beach terror assault. The 50 year old dad was strolling along the beach when he was struck by gunfire in the mindless terrorist act.
Adam’s relatives have shared their anguish in a statement where they reveal ‘no words can describe the pain of our loss’ as they, like many in the Bondi community and other bereaved families, struggle to comprehend the atrocity that unfolded. They highlighted the football club as one of his ‘loves in life’, reports the Liverpool Echo.
In photographs released by the family, Adam can be spotted enjoying himself at Anfield, being an avid sports enthusiast. Adam is survived by four children and his cherished wife Katrina, who was with him on Sunday, December 14.
The statement read: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Adam Smyth, father of four children and husband to Katrina. Adam and Katrina were walking at Bondi Beach on Sunday evening when they found themselves in the middle of the horrific and devastating attack.
“We are all trying to come to terms with the senseless shooting, of which Adam was a victim.”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
“No words can describe the pain of our loss.
“Adam and Katrina were living their best lives together. Their shared love of family and friends, travel and sport – if not always the same team – made their time together truly special. Adam’s loves in life were his English Premier League football team Liverpool, his AFL team the Sydney Swans, the NRL’s Manly Sea Eagles and his beloved pets.
“We will forever cherish the time we have had with him. Adam was a generous and kind person who will be dearly missed and is forever irreplaceable.
“You’ll never walk alone (YNWA).”
Adam was amongst 15 people tragically killed during the assault on the Jewish Hanukkah celebration.
Smyth has been identified as the 14th casualty, alongside other victims including British-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger and 10 year old Matilda, a youngster who cherished the “outdoors and animals“. Grandmother Marika Pogany also perished in the horrific attack.
Her loved ones described her as having a ‘warmth and energy that touched countless lives’. In a tribute they stated: “She had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people. Her kindness, laughter, and generosity left a lasting mark on everyone she met, and her incredible network of friends was a true reflection of the love and loyalty she inspired.
“Though she is gone, her light will continue to shine brightly through the family and friends who were so blessed to have her in their lives. Forever our gorgeous Darlink.”
Naveed Akram, aged 24, was charged with 59 offences after regaining consciousness from a coma on Tuesday evening. His father, Sajid Akram, 50, was fatally shot after opening fire into the crowds.
The police have claimed that the assault was “inspired” by Islamic State.
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.
