More than $2.5 million has been raised for Ahmed Al Ahmed, the man who intervened during the tragic mass shooting at Bondi Beach on October 15, 2023. Al Ahmed’s quick actions to disarm one of the assailants have made him a national hero in Australia. The crowdfunding campaign has garnered nearly 43,000 individual donations, including a notable contribution of $99,999 from American billionaire Bill Ackman.
In a statement on the GoFundMe page, the campaign emphasized Al Ahmed’s selfless bravery: “In a moment of chaos and danger, Ahmed Al Ahmed stepped forward without hesitation. His actions were selfless, instinctive, and undeniably heroic, taken without regard for his own safety.” Reports indicate that Al Ahmed was shot twice while protecting others during the attack.
The total funds raised for victims of the Bondi Beach shooting and their families now amount to nearly $5 million. Among the victims, a fundraiser for 10-year-old Matilda, the youngest of the deceased, has raised approximately $780,000. Matilda’s funeral service was held in Woollahra shortly after the incident. Additionally, a campaign for Sofia and Boris Gurman, both killed while attempting to thwart the attack, has collected around $650,000.
In total, over 41 individuals were injured, including two New South Wales Police officers. Constable Scott Dyson, 24, suffered severe injuries to his shoulder, while Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, tragically lost his left eye. Hibbert’s fundraiser has raised nearly $36,000.
The attack unfolded shortly before 19:00 local time, as over 1,000 people gathered to celebrate the first day of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Al Ahmed, aged 42, originally from Syria, was at the event with friends when he witnessed the unfolding violence. He has since been commended for his courageous actions, which likely prevented further casualties.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited Al Ahmed during his recovery and expressed gratitude for his bravery. “Ahmed is a real-life hero,” Minns stated on social media. “His incredible bravery saved countless lives when he disarmed a terrorist at enormous personal risk.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also met with Al Ahmed at St George Hospital, calling the encounter a “great honour.” He praised Al Ahmed’s decision to act during such a perilous situation, highlighting the inspiring nature of his bravery: “He decided to take action and his bravery is an inspiration for all Australians.”
There are discussions regarding a potential bravery award for Al Ahmed, with Governor-General Sam Mostyn indicating that he has been nominated multiple times for the Cross of Valour, Australia’s highest bravery accolade. Mostyn noted, “It would be staggering that he wouldn’t be receiving some form of bravery award.”
In a heartfelt message from his hospital bed, Al Ahmed expressed his appreciation to those supporting him: “May Allah reward you and grant wellbeing.” His migration lawyer, Sam Issa, informed local media that Al Ahmed has endured significant pain and has sustained multiple bullet wounds. “He’s not well at all. He’s riddled with bullets,” Issa remarked, emphasizing Al Ahmed’s humility and his willingness to act without seeking recognition.
As the investigation continues into the actions of the alleged attackers, the public continues to rally around the victims and their families. Al Ahmed’s story has resonated deeply, spotlighting the extraordinary human spirit in the face of violence and chaos.
