Web Desk (MNN); Public donations for Ahmed al Ahmed, the Sydney man who bravely wrestled a rifle from one of the attackers during a mass shooting at Bondi Beach, have surpassed A$1.1 million as he continues to recover in hospital after undergoing surgery for gunshot wounds.
The 43-year-old father of two was injured while confronting the gunman during Sundayās attack on a Jewish celebration, which left 15 people dead in Australiaās deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ahmedās courageous actions prevented further loss of life.
Speaking to ABC News, Albanese said the attack reflected the worst of humanity, but Ahmedās response demonstrated the very best. He said Ahmed ran towards danger, placing his own life at risk to protect others. Ahmed was shot twice by a second attacker, sustaining injuries to his arm and hand, according to his family.
Police said the assault was carried out by a 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son. Investigators confirmed that Ahmed had initially taken cover behind parked vehicles before charging one of the gunmen from behind, seizing his weapon and forcing him to the ground.
Ahmedās father, Mohamed Fateh al Ahmed, told Australian media that his son is an Australian citizen who earns a living selling fruits and vegetables and had previously served in the police. He said seeing injured people and bloodshed compelled Ahmed to act without hesitation.
Ahmedās cousin, Jozay Alkanji, said the initial surgery was successful but further medical procedures may still be required.
Tributes have poured in from across Australia and abroad. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited Ahmed at St George Hospital, calling him a real-life hero and thanking him on behalf of the people of the state.
US President Donald Trump described Ahmed as a very brave man who saved many lives, while US Senator Bernie Sanders praised his selfless act, saying Ahmedās bravery showed that religion should never divide shared humanity and that antisemitism, Islamophobia and all forms of hatred must be rejected.
A GoFundMe campaign launched for Ahmed raised more than A$1.1 million within 24 hours. Billionaire investor Bill Ackman emerged as the largest donor, contributing A$99,999 and promoting the fundraiser on social media.
Outside the hospital, members of the public gathered to express solidarity. Families laid flowers and volunteers from a Muslim-run charity also visited the hospital to offer assistance and raise funds, emphasising unity and compassion in the face of violence.
