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Alleged Bondi gunman charged with 15 counts of murder as investigators reveal possible motive behind shooting
On Sunday, December 14, 2025, Bondi Beach in Sydney became the site of one of the deadliest shootings in Australia’s history, when two alleged gunmen opened fire on families gathered for a Hanukkah celebration.
The attack, which left 15 dead and dozens injured, has been declared a terrorist act, with authorities suggesting it may have been motivated by ISIS ideology. The tragedy, occurring on a bridge overlooking the beach, has shaken the local community and the nation as a whole.
Law enforcement quickly identified two suspects, Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, who are believed to have carried out the attack. Sajid Akram was killed during the incident, but Naveed, who was critically injured, survived and is now facing charges.
Following an extensive investigation, Australian authorities have charged Naveed Akram with 59 offenses, including 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act, The Washington Post reports.
Charges against Naveed Akram
Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with multiple offenses, including 15 counts of murder and 40 charges related to causing grievous bodily harm. He is also facing charges for placing explosives near a building, discharging a firearm with intent to cause harm, and displaying a prohibited terrorist symbol.
Police found ISIS flags and improvised explosive devices in a vehicle linked to the father-son duo, suggesting a connection to the extremist group.
The suspect, who had been in a coma following the shooting, has now woken up and is reportedly recovering. Authorities have indicated they will begin formal questioning once his medical condition allows, ensuring that he fully understands the charges against him.
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said, "For his fairness, we need him to understand what is exactly happening."
A community in shock
As the investigation continues, the public remains in shock over the scale of the attack. With more than 20 people still hospitalized, including one in critical condition, the community is grappling with the aftermath.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the world, as people express their grief and solidarity with the victims and their families. The horrific incident has raised new questions about the threat of extremist violence and the measures in place to prevent such attacks in the future.
The shooting marks the deadliest mass killing in Australia in over 30 years, and it has prompted calls for increased vigilance and security in public spaces. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the suspects’ motives and possible connections to ISIS.