Jewish Man In Coma After Bondi Beach Chanukah Terror Distracted Terrorists, Hailed as Hero

Israeli national Gefen Bitton remains in a coma after being shot multiple times during the Chanukah terror attack at Bondi Beach, as new video footage has cast him as an unsung hero who repeatedly moved toward the terrorists in what appears to have been a deliberate attempt to draw their fire.

Friends said Bitton had spent earlier that day completing a lengthy hike and planned to unwind by the ocean, looking forward to marking the first night of Chanukah at what was expected to be a serene community gathering. He was eager to watch the menorah lighting and take part in the beachfront celebration.

Footage from the scene shows Bitton acting alongside Australian civilian Ahmed al Ahmed, who witnesses initially described as “the man in the red shirt.” As shots rang out, Bitton is seen advancing toward the attackers instead of running away. He is hit by gunfire and collapses, then struggles back to his feet and moves forward again before being shot a second time.

The shooting took place during a public Chanukah event organized by Chabad, and resulted in the murder of 15 people, inclusive two shluchim, a Holocaust survivor and a 10 year old girl, with dozens more wounded. While panic spread and many attendees fled for cover, Bitton’s actions placed him directly in the line of fire. Supporters believe his movement toward the terrorists may have diverted their attention, allowing others in the crowd precious moments to escape.

Bitton was evacuated from the scene with multiple gunshot wounds and placed in a medically induced coma. He remains hospitalized in intensive care as doctors continue efforts to stabilize his condition and treat his injuries.

After learning of the attack, Bitton’s father flew from Israel to Australia to be at his son’s side. Family members said he was able to locate Gefen by tracking his phone through the Find My Friends feature, which helped him identify the hospital where his son had been admitted.