10-Year-Old Matilda Escaped the Violence of War — Only to Be Taken in a Moment of Peace

A young girl who fled the horrors of war in Ukraine was gunned down in what should have been a peaceful day by the sea. What happened was a devastating twist no one could have imagined.

Matilda Bee Britvan, just 10 years old, was violently killed during a public shooting spree at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia — a place her family believed would offer them safety and hope.

The incident unfolded on Sunday evening, December 14, 2025, as sunseekers strolled the famed Campbell Parade, unaware of the nightmare about to erupt.

Terror Strikes at a Place of Peace

According to police, two men opened fire in a public place, leaving multiple people dead and several others injured.

Emergency services were called to the scene around 6:45 p.m., triggering a massive police response and the creation of an exclusion zone. But the horror had already unfolded.

It was later confirmed that Matilda was among the victims, sending shockwaves through the community and beyond.

In a heartbreaking Facebook post, Matilda's aunt broke the news to the world: her "beloved niece Matilda was killed during a terrorist attack in Bondi Beach." She added that the family did not know how they would survive the grief.

The tragedy is even more harrowing considering the journey that brought Matilda to Australia — a journey meant to save her life.

Escaping War Only to Find Death in Safety

Matilda's mother, Valentina Poltavchenko, appeared in a gut-wrenching video interview shared on social media, explaining how they had fled Ukraine to shield their children from bloodshed and trauma.

She revealed that her older son remained safe since he was not fighting in the war. She could never have imagined losing her daughter in a place like Australia.

With her voice breaking, Valentina described the final moments of Matilda's life: her daughter was crying for her father and trying to hide when the fatal shot struck.

"I couldn't imagine I could lose my daughter here," she said. "It's just a nightmare."

A Fundraiser Reflects a Life Cut Short

In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was launched in Matilda's memory, aiming to support Valentina and the grieving family during this impossible time.

The fundraiser, created by Matilda's language teacher, paints a picture of a vibrant, radiant girl who touched everyone she met.

Describing her as bright, joyful, and spirited, the teacher's words echoed the sentiments of an entire community now grieving her loss.

Shot While Celebrating Hanukkah

The fundraiser revealed that Matilda was celebrating Hanukkah when her young life was ripped away. The page emphasizes that her spirit will live on in the hearts of those lucky enough to know her.

She is remembered as a loving and kind child, someone who taught others about compassion, and whose smile could light up a room.

The family has expressed heartfelt gratitude for every message, donation, and act of kindness from the public.

A School Left in Pieces

Matilda attended La Perouse School in Sydney, where students and teachers were left devastated by the loss of their cherished classmate.

In a tribute shared on social media, the school remembered her as their "little ray of sunshine."

Known for her kindness, care, and compassion, Matilda was said to brighten every day she walked through the school gates. Her laughter was described as infectious, her spirit unbreakable.

A Moment of Joy Before the Darkness

Just days before the shooting, Matilda had participated in the school's presentation day, believing her best friend would be the one called up for an award. But when her own name was announced for the Soroptimist International Literacy Award, the surprise was clear.

She walked to the stage with a smile, unaware it would be one of her final proud moments. Teachers say they were "so proud to see her reach every goal she worked toward."

Among the most touching memories is Matilda's bond with her younger sister, Summer.

According to staff, when Summer was once asked who she wanted to be when she grew up, her answer was simple: "Matilda."

It's just one of the many stories now etched into the hearts of those who knew her.

The school also recalled how Matilda loved choreographing playground dances, giggling with friends, and bravely giving class presentations. They say her strength and joy for life will never be forgotten.

Police Launch Full-Scale Investigation

The NSW Police Force confirmed the violent incident through a social media post, urging the public to steer clear of the Bondi Beach area.

Officers from the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command, along with emergency responders, rushed to the scene.

Authorities reported the discovery of several suspicious items near the site, now being analyzed by specialist teams. The area was cordoned off as an extensive crime scene. There have been no reports of related attacks elsewhere in Sydney, but the investigation is far from over.

Police are urging anyone with mobile or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers immediately.

Her Light Lives On

As investigators work to piece together what happened, Matilda's family and community are focused on keeping her memory alive.

In another emotional video, Matilda's aunt spoke lovingly about her niece's spirit, asking people to "smile at the people next to them, the way Matilda always did."

She described a child who never stopped smiling, so much so that she "could not find a single serious photo" of Matilda.

A Legacy of Kindness and Light

The impact of Matilda's death stretches far beyond her family and school — her story has captivated hearts worldwide, a cruel reminder that peace can be shattered in an instant.

As tributes continue to pour in, those who knew her cling tightly to the memory of a girl remembered for kindness, light, and love.

Even in her short life, Matilda brought immeasurable joy, and that's what her loved ones vow to remember.