A heroic couple, Boris Gurman, 69, and Sofia Gurman, 61, lost their lives while courageously confronting Sajid Akram, 50, during an attack at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach in Sydney. The Gurmans, who were of Jewish descent and married for 34 years, were tragically the first victims of the terror incident. Dashcam footage captured Boris Gurman, a retired mechanic, engaging in a physical struggle with the attacker before both men fell to the ground. Despite his efforts, the attacker retrieved another firearm and fatally shot the couple.
The Gurman family expressed pride in Boris and Sofia’s bravery and selflessness, emphasizing their innate desire to assist others. They described Boris as a generous and strong individual, while Sofia was beloved by her colleagues and community for her work at Australia Post. The couple, known for their kindness and hardworking nature, left a significant void in their family and community.
Witnesses hailed Boris Gurman as a hero for his valiant actions against the attackers. The tragic incident claimed the lives of fifteen individuals, including a 10-year-old girl, a British rabbi, and a Holocaust survivor, with victims ranging from 10 to 87 years old. Additionally, 22 individuals, including two police officers, are hospitalized, with nine in critical condition following the attack.