The mother of Naveed Akram, one of the individuals identified in connection with the December 14, 2025, incident at Bondi Beach, has shared her perspective in interviews, describing her son as a “good boy” and recounting their final conversation hours before the events unfolded.

Verna Akram, speaking to reporters outside the family home in Bonnyrigg, Sydney’s south-west, expressed disbelief and maintained that her 24-year-old son, Naveed, showed no signs of involvement in extreme activities. She revealed that Naveed had contacted her on the morning of the incident, discussing routine plans. According to reports, he mentioned activities like swimming and eating, adding that they planned to stay home due to the heat. The family had been told the pair were on a weekend fishing trip to Jervis Bay.

Naveed Akram, born in Australia, and his father Sajid Akram, 50, have been named by authorities as the two men involved in the shooting at a Hanukkah celebration event known as “Chanukah by the Sea.” The attack occurred around 6:47 p.m. on Sunday evening in Archer Park near Bondi Pavilion, resulting in multiple casualties. Police engaged the suspects, with Sajid pronounced dead at the scene and Naveed taken to hospital in critical condition under guard.

Verna Akram reportedly struggled to recognize her son in images from the scene and stated he did not own firearms, though Sajid held a license for several weapons. Naveed had recently lost his job as a bricklayer after his employer went insolvent and had previously studied at a local institute.

The incident has been declared a terrorist act by NSW Police, with investigations involving the Joint Counter Terrorism Team. Authorities found improvised devices in a vehicle at the scene, which were safely neutralized. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described it as deliberately targeting the Jewish community during the festival.

Community response has been marked by vigils and tributes at Bondi Pavilion, where flowers and messages continue to accumulate. Leaders across political and religious lines have condemned the events, emphasizing unity and support for affected families.

Naveed had come to the attention of security agencies in 2019 due to associations, but assessments at the time found no ongoing concerns. Recent travels by the pair to the Philippines are also under review.

Police raids occurred at the family residence in Bonnyrigg and a short-term rental in Campsie. No additional suspects are being sought.

Eyewitness accounts describe chaos as shots rang out, with people fleeing the area. A bystander, identified as Ahmed al Ahmed, a local shop owner, intervened by disarming one of the individuals, an action praised for potentially limiting further harm.

The death toll stands at 15, including community figures such as Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a key organizer of the event. Dozens were injured, with hospitals reporting treatments for various conditions.

Political figures, including Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns, have pledged reviews of gun laws in light of the weapons used, some of which were legally held. Discussions focus on strengthening controls while addressing community safety.

Jewish organizations have noted a rise in reported incidents over recent years, calling for continued efforts against prejudice.

International reactions include condemnations from leaders worldwide, with solidarity messages for Australia’s Jewish community.

Ongoing investigations aim to establish full details of planning and motivations. ASIO and federal agencies are assisting state police.

Family members of those impacted have begun sharing stories, highlighting personal losses amid the broader shock.

Memorial plans are developing, with sites established for public reflection.

The events mark a significant moment in Australian history, prompting national conversations on security, community relations, and prevention.

As details emerge, focus remains on supporting recovery and understanding the circumstances leading to the tragedy.

Verna Akram’s comments reflect the personal devastation experienced by those connected, even indirectly, to the individuals involved.

Authorities continue to provide updates through official channels.

Bondi Beach, typically a symbol of leisure, now serves as a site of remembrance.

Community groups organize support services for witnesses and affected residents.

The investigation proceeds with forensic analysis and witness statements.

Public figures urge calm and reliance on verified information.

This account draws from multiple reports to provide a comprehensive overview of developments as of December 15, 2025.

Further updates expected as hospital conditions and inquiries progress.

The nation observes moments of silence in honor of those lost.

Efforts to assist families include established funds and counseling.

Police commend responding officers and civilian actions during the response.

Broader implications for public events and gatherings under review.

Sydney’s diverse communities rally in shared resolve.

The story of one family’s ordinary morning contrasting with subsequent events underscores the unpredictability faced by all involved.

As the holiday period approaches, emphasis on healing and togetherness prevails.

Official statements stress no ongoing public threat.

Raids and evidence collection continue methodically.

Victim identifications proceed with sensitivity to families.

International media coverage highlights Australia’s response.

Local businesses near the site offer support to staff and visitors.

Schools in the area adjust schedules for student wellbeing.

Religious leaders from various faiths join in intercommunity dialogues.

The role of social media in spreading information and misinformation noted.

Calls for enhanced reporting mechanisms on concerning behaviors.

Background checks and licensing processes likely to face scrutiny.

Personal stories from survivors begin to surface.

Heroic interventions, like that of the bystander, receive recognition.

Mother’s portrayal of her son as grounded in daily routines contrasts sharply with the allegations.

Family home remains under police presence for investigative purposes.

Neighbors express surprise at developments.

Former colleagues describe Naveed as focused on work and fitness.

Institute where he studied condemns actions unequivocally.

Travel history examined for potential influences.

Device findings raise questions on preparation.

Event organizers had planned a joyful celebration marking Hanukkah’s start.

Attendance included families and visitors enjoying the beach setting.

Rapid police arrival credited with containing the situation.

Officer involved in engagement receives support.

Public donations surge for victim assistance.

Memorial design discussions involve community input.

Long-term impacts on tourism and local economy anticipated.

Mental health resources promoted in wake of trauma.

Political debates balance security and civil liberties.

Global Jewish diaspora expresses solidarity.

Australian resilience highlighted in media narratives.

Investigation timeline extends into coming weeks.

Court proceedings await for surviving individual.

Family privacy respected amid media interest.

Mother’s interview marks rare direct comment from relatives.

Public curiosity tempered by calls for compassion.

The juxtaposition of a casual family call with later events lingers in reports.

Authorities prepare comprehensive briefings.

Community healing events scheduled.

Bondi’s iconic status now intertwined with this chapter.

Nation reflects on paths to prevention.

Support networks activate across states.

Final casualty figures confirmed by health officials.

International expertise consulted if needed.

The personal anguish captured in maternal descriptions humanizes complex narratives.

As inquiries advance, more insights may emerge.

For now, focus centers on mourning and recovery.

Sydney stands united in the aftermath.