Heroic Act: How Ahmed al Ahmed Became Australia's Bondi Hero by Disarming Mass Shooter

Ahmed has been hailed as a hero worldwide, including by US President Donald Trump.

On Tuesday, flowers were placed in front of the closed shop of Ahmed al Ahmed, the 43-year-old tobacco shop owner celebrated as the "Bondi hero" after he courageously wrestled a gun from one of the attackers during a mass shooting at Sydney's Bondi Beach.

Social media identified Ahmed as the brave bystander who took shelter behind parked cars before charging at the gunman from behind, seizing his rifle and forcing him to the ground. Authorities have confirmed that his actions saved numerous lives.

"I think he's a role model for us all and it really encompasses the Aussie spirit. I'm incredibly proud to live in the area and I think everybody is. It blows me away, absolutely blows me away," expressed Adam Pogorzelski, a resident of Ahmed's neighborhood in Sutherland, approximately 26 km (16 miles) from Sydney's center.

Ahmed, father of two, remains hospitalized in Sydney with gunshot wounds. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited him earlier Tuesday and informed the media that Ahmed will require additional surgery.

Heroes around the globe have recognized Ahmed's bravery, including US President Donald Trump who described him as "a very, very brave person" who preserved many lives.

A GoFundMe campaign established for Ahmed has accumulated over A$2 million ($1.33 million).

The attack at a Jewish celebration on Sunday afternoon was allegedly carried out by a 50-year-old father and his 24-year-old son, resulting in 15 fatalities—Australia's deadliest mass shooting in nearly 30 years.

"I was actually proud when I saw it. I thought to myself, wow is that Ahmed, because I know him. Then I looked at it twice and realized it was him," said a 20-year-old employee at a neighboring pharmacy who wished to remain anonymous.

"What he did was unbelievable."