Donations for a Sydney man injured during the Bondi Beach mass shooting have exceeded A$1.1 million.
The fundraising surge comes as he recovers in hospital following surgery for gunshot wounds. Supporters across Australia and abroad have praised his courage and swift actions. Many credit his bravery with preventing further loss of life.
Heroic Act Amid Chaos
Forty-three-year-old Ahmed al Ahmed was attending a crowded event near Bondi Beach on Sunday afternoon.
Witnesses said gunmen opened fire during a Jewish celebration near the shoreline.
Ahmed initially hid behind parked cars as bullets struck nearby. He then charged one attacker from behind without hesitation. Ahmed wrestled the rifle from the gunman and forced him to the ground. Moments later, a second attacker shot Ahmed twice during the chaos. His family said bullets struck his hand and arm.
Prime Minister Praises Courage
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ahmed’s actions saved many lives. He described the attack as a brutal terrorist act. Albanese also praised Ahmed for running toward danger. He said Ahmed risked his own life to protect strangers. The prime minister spoke during an interview with ABC News.
Police Detail Deadly Attack
Australian police said a father and son carried out the attack. The suspects were aged 50 and 24. Authorities said the pair killed 15 people. The shooting marked Australia’s worst mass attack in nearly three decades.
Police confirmed both attackers are in custody. Investigators continue examining motives and possible extremist links.
Family Hails Ahmed as a Hero
Ahmed’s father, Mohamed Fateh al Ahmed, called his son a hero. He said Ahmed previously served in the police.
Ahmed now works selling fruits and vegetables. His father said Ahmed has a strong instinct to protect others.
He said blood on the ground pushed his son to act immediately.
Medical Recovery Continues
Ahmed’s cousin, Jozay Alkanji, said surgeons completed initial procedures successfully. Doctors may perform further surgery in coming days. Hospital staff described his condition as stable. Family members remain hopeful about his recovery.
Global Praise and Financial Support
U.S. President Donald Trump praised Ahmed’s bravery publicly. He said Ahmed saved many lives through decisive action. A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after the attack. The fundraiser raised more than A$1.1 million within one day. Billionaire investor Bill Ackman donated A$99,999. Ackman also shared the campaign with his followers online.
Community Shows Solidarity
Outside St George Hospital, strangers gathered to show support. Many left flowers, notes, and messages of thanks. Misha and Veronica Pochuev visited with their young daughter. They said the tragedy crossed religious and cultural boundaries. Another supporter, Yomna Touni, waited for hours to help. She represented a Muslim-run charity supporting Ahmed’s recovery.
