- Horror mass shooting that claimed at least 16 lives
Sport stars Sonny Bill Williams and Usman Khawaja have revealed their devastation over the Bondi terror attack that has claimed at least 16 lives.
The footy great turned boxer and Test cricketer have both condemned the two shooters who allegedly attacked Jewish families at Bondi Beach on Sunday.
New South Wales Police have alleged that Naveed Akram, 24, and his father, 50, left at least 16 people dead after opening fire at a Jewish Hanukkah event on Sunday afternoon.
A 10-year-old girl is among the dead, while at least another 40 people are injured – five in critical condition.
One of the shooters was sensationally disarmed by Sydney man Ahmed el Ahmed, who has been hailed a hero for his bravery.
He was given a special mention by Williams, who posted about the massacre on X and Instagram.
Pictured: Sonny Bill Williams responds to the horror in Bondi Beach
Williams (pictured) praised the bravery of Ahmed al Ahmed, who was filmed disarming one of the alleged gunmen
‘Prayers and hearts are with those affected by this tragedy in Bondi tonight,’ Williams wrote, adding a broken-heart emoji.
‘Like the brave man Ahmed, who risked his life to disarm one of the gunmen.
‘I’m against the killing of innocent people no matter where they’re from.
‘God willing we start to move in a way where empathy, compassion and unity beats hatred.’
Khawaja made several statements on Instagram in response to the slaughter.
He posted an image of his first statement on Sunday, along with the caption: ‘To the whole Bondi and Jewish community. 2 horrible crimes in 2 years.
‘Truly devastating news from Bondi today,’ he posted with a broken-heart emoji.
‘Lives lost senselessly, families shattered, the Bondi community traumatised.
Test cricket star Usman Khawaja (pictured) revealed his devastation at what unfolded on arguably Australia’s most famous beach
Khawaja made the above statement on Instagram on Sunday
The Aussie Test cricket star then followed up with a second message on Monday morning condemning the alleged shooters
At least 16 people are dead with many more injured after a father and son allegedly opened fire on a Jewish event (pictured)
‘There are no words – only heartbreak. My thoughts and prayers to all affected.’
Khawaja also shared a post from the Jewish Council of Australia.
‘We are horrified and shaken in the wake of the mass shooting at a Chanukah event in Bondi this evening, which has left at least 10 people dead and injured many more,’ the council’s post read.
‘This is the first night of Chanukah when we gather with loved ones and friends to light the Chanukiah.
‘Many within our community have just received the worst news of their lives. Others are caring for injured loved ones, and some are still waiting to hear that their families are safe.’
Khawaja shared his message again on Monday morning to his Instagram story, including a new update.
‘Up before the break of dawn and praying for the Jewish and Bondi community as a whole,’ he posted.
‘No room whatsoever for these hate crimes.’
Khawaja is a devout Muslim and his wife Rachel McLellan has also converted to the faith
Khawaja’s followers embraced his messages of support for the Sydney Jewish and Bondi communities.
‘It’s absolutely devastating and completely wrong to have innocent people attacked whilst celebrating any occasion. My tears are flowing but love in my heart,’ one posted.
Another said: ‘Tragic event for Australia and so sad’.
‘Thanks Uzzy. You’re a kind soul,’ posted another.
More than 21,000 followers have liked the original post that Khawaja published on Sunday.
Khawaja is the first Muslim Australian to play in the Test cricket side and his wife Rachel McLellan has also converted to the religion.