Community members, faith leaders and local officials gathered Wednesday night at Congregation Beth Shalom in Modesto for a memorial service honoring victims of a deadly attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.
News agencies report that the Dec. 14 shooting targeted Jewish people at an outdoor Hanukkah celebration and resulted in 15 people killed and 40 wounded. Gunman Sajid Akram, 50, was killed exchanging gunfire with police. His 24-year-old son, Naveed Akram, was wounded and is expected to face charges including murder, attempted murder and committing an act of terrorism.
Wednesday’s hourlong gathering, held during Hanukkah, brought together members of the Jewish community alongside interfaith and community leaders, including Modesto Vice Mayor Nick Bavaro, Police Chief Brandon Gillespie, District Attorney Jeff Laugero and City Council members Chris Ricci and Jeremiah Williams…