Sydney shooting death toll rises to 12, premier says UPDATED

The death toll from the attack in Sydney has risen to 12, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said. 

Speaking at a press conference, Minns said the incident at Bondi Beach was a “targeted attack on the city’s Jewish community,” a local outlet reports.

“One of the perpetrators was also killed, and another is in custody,” Minns added, providing details of the ongoing investigation.

Authorities continue to investigate the motives and circumstances surrounding the attack.

Earlier, New South Wales Police Commissioner Mallon Lennon said the attack on people at Bondi Beach in Sydney is an act of terrorism. 

“In light of the circumstances of tonight's incident, I have declared this an act of terrorism,” he said.

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A shooting occurred at a beach in Sydney during an event marking the start of the Hanukkah holiday, Australian media report.

According to preliminary information, unknown assailants opened fire on participants at the gathering. Videos shared on social media show people fleeing the beach in panic as gunshots can be heard.

Police confirmed that at least 10 people were killed and around 60 others were injured in the incident. Sydney News reported that the victims include children as well as a police officer.

Law enforcement authorities said one of the attackers was neutralised at the scene, while a second suspect was detained. The circumstances of the attack and the motives behind it are currently under investigation.

It was also reported that during the attack, a local resident managed to disarm one of the shooters, which, according to media accounts, helped prevent further casualties.

Police have stepped up security measures across the city, and the investigation is ongoing.

By Khagan Isayev