A 10-year-old girl who fled the horrors of war in Ukraine was tragically killed during what should have been a peaceful day by the sea.
Matilda Bee Britvan’s death shocked the world, a heartbreaking twist no one could have imagined.
On Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, turned into a scene of terror.
Sunseekers strolled along the famous Campbell Parade, unaware of the nightmare about to unfold.
Police confirmed that two men opened fire in a crowded area, killing multiple people and injuring others. Emergency services rushed to the scene around 6:45 p.m., setting up an exclusion zone. Sadly, Matilda was among the victims, sending shockwaves through the community.
In a Facebook post, Matilda’s aunt shared the devastating news: her “beloved niece Matilda was killed during a terrorist attack in Bondi Beach.” She added that the family did not know how to survive the grief.
Escaping War Only to Face Violence
Matilda’s mother, Valentina Poltavchenko, appeared in a video interview, explaining that they had fled Ukraine to protect their children from bloodshed. Her older son remained safe, but she never imagined losing her daughter in Australia.
With a trembling voice, Valentina described Matilda’s final moments: the girl was crying for her father and trying to hide when the fatal shot struck. “I couldn’t imagine I could lose my daughter here. It’s just a nightmare,” she said.
Remembering a Bright Spirit
In the wake of the tragedy, Matilda’s language teacher launched a GoFundMe to support the grieving family. The fundraiser highlighted her joyful, vibrant personality, painting a picture of a girl who touched everyone she met.
Matilda had been celebrating Hanukkah when her life was taken. Her family remembers her as kind, loving, and full of light — a child whose smile could brighten any room.
A School Community in Mourning
Matilda attended La Perouse School, where students and teachers mourned deeply. The school remembered her as a “little ray of sunshine,” known for her compassion and infectious laughter.
Just days before the shooting, Matilda had participated in a school presentation. Expecting her best friend to be called for an award, she was surprised when her own name was announced for the Soroptimist International Literacy Award. Teachers celebrated her achievement, unaware it would be one of her last proud moments.
Matilda’s bond with her younger sister, Summer, remains one of the many cherished memories. Staff recall how Matilda loved choreographing playground dances, giggling with friends, and giving brave class presentations. Her joy and courage left a lasting impression on everyone around her.
Police Launch Full-Scale Investigation
NSW Police confirmed the violent attack and urged the public to avoid Bondi Beach. Officers from the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, along with emergency responders, rushed to the scene.
Authorities discovered several suspicious items nearby, now being analyzed. The area remains a crime scene, and police ask anyone with mobile or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers.
Her Legacy of Light
While investigators work to uncover the full details, Matilda’s family and community focus on keeping her memory alive. In a video, her aunt urged people to “smile at the people next to them, the way Matilda always did.”
Matilda’s life, though brief, touched countless hearts. Tributes continue to pour in, honoring a girl remembered for her kindness, joy, and love. Her legacy reminds the world of the light she brought, even in the darkest times.
