The recent shooting at Bondi Beach has resulted in a national tragedy, but the actions of a couple who tried to stop one of the assailants have been recognized for their bravery.
On Sunday, during a Hannukah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, two gunmen opened fire on a crowd, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people.
The suspected gunmen were identified as Sajid, 50, who was killed on the spot, and his son, Naveed Akram, 24.
Victims of the shooting ranged in age from 10 to 87, with many now identified.
A fruit shop owner, Ahmed al Ahmed, aged 43, has been commended for disarming one of the attackers. Video evidence captures him in the act, causing the shooter to retreat, despite being shot twice himself.
In addition to Ahmed, another couple attempted to confront the shooters as the violence erupted.
Footage circulated on Chinese social media, now confirmed as authentic, depicts a man and a woman trying to overpower one of the gunmen.
Dashcam footage reveals a man in a purple shirt confronting the armed individual after exiting his vehicle, followed by a woman arriving to assist while they struggle on the ground.
The footage shows the man in purple seemingly seizing the gun from the attacker.
The courageous pair were later identified as Boris Gurman, 69, and his wife Sofia Gurman, 61.
In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald, their family confirmed the couple was fatally shot.
The Gurman family expressed their sorrow: “We are heartbroken by the sudden and senseless loss of our beloved Boris and Sofia Gurman.
“They had been married for 34 years, with their 35th wedding anniversary approaching in January. We were looking forward to celebrating Sofia’s 62nd birthday on Wednesday 17th of December.”
Drone footage taken afterwards captured the couple lying lifeless together on a footpath.
The family continued to honor Boris and Sofia’s attempts to thwart the attack, stating that their loss leaves an “immeasurable void.”
They added: “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 losing Boris and Sofia, 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.
“We are deeply grateful for the love, compassion and support that has been shown to our family during this unimaginable time. From here, we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve.”