A GoFundMe campaign set up by the bystander who tackled and disarmed one of the attackers in the Bondi Beach shooting is closing in on $2 million, Bloomberg reported. Mobile phone footage at the moment continues to spread online and resulted in an outpouring of support.
The fundraiser backed by more than 33,000 donors stood at about $1.94 million by 11:30 am Sydney time Tuesday. The campaign was created for Ahmed Al Ahmed, identified by the local media as a 43-year-old father of two. As per the Bloomberg report, Ahmed shifted to Australia from Syria in 2006 and suffered four to five gunshot wounds. Australia’s ABC reported that he is expected to undergo multiple rounds of surgery.
The case has attracted attention well beyond Australia. The US President Donald Trump hailed Ahmed’s actions on Sunday, stating he saved many lives and voiced “great respect” for him. Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman also praised Ahmed, Bloomberg mentioned in its report. Ackman’s Pershing Square firm would set up a reward program for people who carry out similar acts. The fundraiser’s largest listed donation was from William Ackman for $99,999.
Video shows tackle and rifle seizure during attack
In the viral video, a man in a white shirt is seen charging at a rifle-wielding attacker in a dark shirt in a car park. The bystander tackles him from behind, wrestles the rifle away with his hands, and briefly points it back at the gunman before putting the weapon down. The armed man then turned backwards toward a bridge where another shooter was positioned.
Police probe continues as leaders cite bravery that saved lives
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns called the bystander “ a genuine hero” and stated that “there are many, many people alive tonight as a result of his bravery, “ as quoted by Reuters. Minns also visited Ahmed in hospital and described him as a “real-life hero”.
One suspected gunman was killed, and another was in critical condition after the shooting at an event marking Hanukkah. Police are investigating whether a third gunman was involved or not. Two men, later identified as father and son, opened fire into the crowd, killing 15 people. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also praised Ahmed and others who provided support to victims. Albanese applauded Australians who had “run towards danger to help others,” stating their bravery saved lives.