Twelve people, including a suspected shooter, have died following a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach, Australia, authorities confirmed. At least 12 others were injured, alongside two police officers.

Footage verified by the BBC shows two individuals firing from a bridge connecting a car park to the beach. The New South Wales ambulance service reported that 18 victims were taken to hospitals, with additional people receiving treatment at the scene.

Police first responded to emergency calls around 6:45 pm local time. Two people have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and officers are investigating several suspicious items discovered nearby.

An extensive crime scene has been set up, with authorities stating there are no reports of related incidents elsewhere in Sydney. Armed police swarmed the area as investigations continue.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the events as “shocking and distressing,” emphasizing that emergency personnel are working to save lives. He urged the public to follow official guidance from NSW Police.

Independent MP Allegra Spender, whose electorate includes Bondi Beach, called the attack “horrifying” and confirmed the perpetrators were apprehended. She asked people to avoid the area and expressed solidarity with the community affected.

The shooting occurred during a Hanukkah event attended by the local Jewish community. It is now being treated as a terrorist attack and marks the deadliest mass shooting in Australia since the 1996 Port Arthur incident. The tragedy comes despite strict gun laws enacted after that attack, highlighting the shock and scale of this recent violence.