As Australia continues to grapple with the shock of its deadliest mass shooting in nearly three decades, one man’s extraordinary act of courage has emerged as a powerful counterpoint to the horror.
Ahmed al Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two, is recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery for gunshot wounds sustained while disarming one of the attackers during Sunday’s mass shooting at a Jewish gathering near Bondi. As he heals, an outpouring of public support has followed — with donations in his name surging past A$1.1 million in just over a day.
Witnesses say Ahmed had been sheltering behind parked cars when he made a split-second decision that would save lives. Charging from behind, he wrestled a rifle away from one of the gunmen and knocked him to the ground. His bravery came at a cost: he was shot twice by a second attacker, sustaining injuries to his hand and arm.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Ahmed’s actions, calling them a rare moment of humanity amid terror.
“What we saw in the last 24 hours was the worst of humanity in a terrorist act,” Albanese told ABC News. “But we also saw the best of humanity in Ahmed Al Ahmed running towards danger, putting his own life at risk.”
Police later confirmed that the attack was carried out by a 50-year-old man and his 24-year-old son, who killed 15 people in what has become one of Australia’s darkest days.
For Ahmed’s family, the label of “hero” comes as no surprise. His father, Mohamed Fateh al Ahmed, said his son had once served in the police and possessed a deep instinct to protect others.
“When he saw people lying on the ground and blood everywhere, his conscience pushed him to act,” he told ABC News. “He attacked one of the terrorists and took away his weapon.”
Ahmed’s cousin, Jozay Alkanji, said the father-of-two has already undergone surgery and may require further medical procedures.
Tributes have poured in from across Australia and beyond. New South Wales Premier Chris Minns visited Ahmed at St George Hospital, later sharing a photo of the injured man resting in bed, his arm in a cast.
“Ahmed is a real-life hero,” Minns wrote. “Thank you, Ahmed.”
International recognition followed as well. US President Donald Trump described him as “a very, very brave person” who saved many lives.
The gratitude has also translated into tangible support. A GoFundMe campaign set up to assist Ahmed and his family surpassed A$1.1 million within 24 hours. Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman emerged as the largest donor, contributing A$99,999 and amplifying the fundraiser on social media.
Outside the hospital, strangers have been stopping by to leave flowers, offer prayers, and simply say thank you. Among them were Misha and Veronica Pochuev, who came with their seven-year-old daughter.
“This is not only about Bondi,” Veronica said. “This is about every person.”
Yomna Touni, representing a Muslim-run charity also collecting funds for Ahmed, spent hours at the hospital offering assistance.
“The intention is to raise as much money as possible for his speedy recovery,” she said.
As Ahmed continues his recovery, many Australians are holding onto his story — a reminder that even in moments of unimaginable violence, individual courage can still shine through.