GoFundMe Raises Over $1.3 Million for Ahmed al Ahmed, Bondi Beach Hero Who Disarmed Gunman

A GoFundMe campaign for Ahmed al Ahmed, the Sydney fruit shop owner hailed as a hero for disarming a gunman during the deadly Bondi Beach attack, has raised more than $1.3 million as of Monday.

Al Ahmed, 43, was among hundreds attending a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on Sunday night when two gunmen opened fire on the crowd. Authorities said more than 1,000 people were in the area at the time of the attack, which left at least 16 people dead and dozens injured and was later described by officials as a terrorist act targeting the Jewish community.

Heroic Act Caught on Video

Verified video footage shows al Ahmed, a father of two whose parents fled Syria as refugees, charging from behind a parked car near a pedestrian bridge and wrestling a rifle away from one of the attackers. He is seen pointing the weapon at the gunman, forcing him to retreat toward the second shooter, before placing the firearm on the ground and raising his hands to signal police.

During the confrontation, al Ahmed was shot in the arm and hand by the second gunman. He was taken to hospital and underwent surgery Sunday night.

According to Daily Mail, al Ahmed told his cousin moments before intervening, “I’m going to die — please see my family and tell them that I went down to save people’s lives.”

Gunmen and Official Response

One of the gunmen was killed at the scene, while the second remains in critical condition, authorities said. Investigators continue to examine whether any additional individuals were involved.

Australian leaders, including Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, publicly praised al Ahmed’s bravery, saying his actions likely prevented further loss of life.

Global Support Grows

The GoFundMe campaign has drawn international attention, including a $99,999 donation from billionaire Bill Ackman, who helped promote the fundraiser. GoFundMe said the funds are being held securely while verification is completed to ensure the money reaches al Ahmed and his family.

U.S. President Donald Trump also commented on the incident, calling al Ahmed “a very, very brave person.”

Supporters around the world continue to donate, crediting al Ahmed’s courage with saving lives during one of Australia’s deadliest mass-casualty attacks in decades.