A young police officer who was shot multiple times during the alleged terror attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach has woken from an induced coma, marking a significant step in what his family acknowledges will be a long road to recovery.
Officer's Critical Injuries and Progress
Constable Scott Dyson, aged 25, was critically wounded on December 14 while responding to the shooting at the popular beachfront. The incident occurred during an event celebrating Hanukkah. Dyson sustained multiple bullet wounds and has undergone what his family described as "almost daily" surgeries since the attack.
In a statement released by the family, they shared the positive news of his awakening on Tuesday. "Our family would like to share that Scott has been getting stronger each day, and today, he was woken up for the first time," they said. While celebrating this milestone, they were realistic about the challenges ahead, stating, "There is still a long way to go in his recovery, but this is a positive sign."
Community Support and Medical Care
The Dyson family expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of public support and the efforts of the medical team. "We would like to thank the public for the support, messages and well wishes shown to Scott and our family during this difficult time," the statement continued. "We are also grateful for the tireless work of his medical team."
Constable Dyson is one of twelve patients who remain in hospital following the violent incident. The attack, which police allege was carried out by father Sajid Akram and son Naveed Akram, resulted in 15 fatalities and 40 injuries.
Another Officer's Miraculous Homecoming
Dyson was not the only officer shot during the response. Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, was also on the scene and suffered gunshot wounds to his head and shoulder. Hibbert's injuries have resulted in the loss of vision in one eye.
In a piece of hopeful news, Hibbert was discharged from hospital on the same Tuesday that Dyson awoke. His family released a statement saying, "While he is home, he is still recovering and will need space, support, and continued positive thoughts during this time." They added, "As a family, we couldn’t ask for anything more — having our Jack home, especially for Christmas, truly feels like a miracle."
The events of December 14 continue to reverberate through Sydney and across Australia, as the injured, their families, and the community grapple with the aftermath of one of the city's darkest days.
