Holocaust survivor Eva Geller dies nearly a year after Bondi Beach attack

Eva Geller, a 90-year-old Holocaust survivor from Hungary, has died in a Sydney hospital. Her death occurs nearly one year after she was seriously wounded during the Bondi Beach terror attack, authorities confirmed on Friday.

Geller was among the dozens of people injured when two gunmen opened fire on a large crowd gathered for a Jewish holiday celebration at the popular beach on December 14 of last year. The incident remains one of the deadliest mass shootings in Australian history in recent decades.

According to reports from the public broadcaster ABC, Geller had been in and out of hospitals in the months following the shooting as she attempted to recover from her injuries. Her Rabbi, Aron Moss, described her final weeks as difficult, noting that she had been admitted to the Prince of Wales hospital just two weeks before her death.

Moss told ABC that Geller had recently celebrated her 90th birthday and demonstrated incredible strength during her recovery. Despite being told by doctors that she would never walk again after being shot, Geller used sheer determination to regain her mobility. She managed to walk again, a testament to her resilience in the face of severe trauma.

New South Wales police issued a statement acknowledging the death. They indicated that they are currently awaiting further advice and are collaborating with the office of the coroner to handle the case. The shooting resulted in the deaths of 15 people in total.

The investigation into the attack has identified the alleged gunmen as Sajid Akram and his son, Naveed Akram. Police stated that the pair were inspired by the Islamic State. Sajid Akram was shot and killed at the scene of the crime. His son, Naveed Akram, was also shot but survived. He is currently facing charges that include 15 counts of murder and a terror offense.

In the wake of the tragedy, a government-backed inquiry into antisemitism was established. This body is scheduled to hand down its findings on December 18, providing further context to the events surrounding the attack.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his sadness upon hearing of Geller's death. He noted that almost a year later, the devastation of that awful day continues to cause pain for families. The Prime Minister stated that the nation is wrapping its arms around Eva Geller's family, friends, and the Jewish community during this very sad time.

ABC reported that Geller's funeral is scheduled to take place next week. The community mourns her passing as it marks the anniversary of the attack that changed the lives of many in Sydney.

The death of Geller highlights the long-term impact of the Bondi Beach shooting on survivors and their families. As the investigation continues and the inquiry approaches its conclusion, the memory of those affected by the tragedy remains a focal point for the Jewish community and the wider Australian public.