The man who disarmed one of the gunmen who killed 15 people at a Jewish event at Bondi Beach has shared his thoughts leading up to his heroic actions. In verified footage, Ahmed al Ahmed - a Sydney shop owner originally from Syria - tackled one of the two shooters from behind, managing to wrestle a long-arm gun from him.
I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him - 'drop your gun, stop doing what you're doing,' the father-of-two told CBS News in an exclusive interview.
Mr. Ahmed, who sustained severe injuries during the incident, described the emotional turmoil he experienced at the time. My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing innocent people, he recounted, emphasizing his motivation to prevent harm.
The tragic incident took place during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14, where 15 people tragically lost their lives, marking it as Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996. Sajid Akram, one of the shooters, was killed by police, while his son, Naveed, faces multiple charges including murder and terrorism.
Reflecting on his daring act, Mr. Ahmed expressed his sorrow for the lives lost. Following the attack, thousands in the community rallied around him, raising an incredible A$2.5 million to support his recovery while he underwent multiple surgeries.
Australia's leaders have hailed Mr. Ahmed as a national hero, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praising his bravery during a recent hospital visit. Mr. Ahmed's selfless act serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of humanity in the face of terror.
I hold him with my right hand and start saying a word, you know, like to warn him - 'drop your gun, stop doing what you're doing,' the father-of-two told CBS News in an exclusive interview.
Mr. Ahmed, who sustained severe injuries during the incident, described the emotional turmoil he experienced at the time. My target was just to take the gun from him, and to stop him from killing innocent people, he recounted, emphasizing his motivation to prevent harm.
The tragic incident took place during a Hanukkah celebration on December 14, where 15 people tragically lost their lives, marking it as Australia’s deadliest mass shooting since 1996. Sajid Akram, one of the shooters, was killed by police, while his son, Naveed, faces multiple charges including murder and terrorism.
Reflecting on his daring act, Mr. Ahmed expressed his sorrow for the lives lost. Following the attack, thousands in the community rallied around him, raising an incredible A$2.5 million to support his recovery while he underwent multiple surgeries.
Australia's leaders have hailed Mr. Ahmed as a national hero, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praising his bravery during a recent hospital visit. Mr. Ahmed's selfless act serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of humanity in the face of terror.
