Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, has lost sight in one eye after being shot twice while responding to the mass shooting at Bondi Beach on Sunday. Hibbert, who had been in the police force for only four months, was patrolling the Chanukah by the Sea event when he attempted to take down gunmen Sajid and Naveed Akram.
In a statement released by his family, Hibbert was described as facing a 'long and challenging recovery' after multiple surgeries. Despite his injuries, he continued to protect and help others until he was physically unable to do so. His family praised his courage, instinct, and selflessness.
Hibbert is one of two officers injured in the attack. Constable Scott Dyson, who has been with the Eastern Suburbs Command for 18 months, remains in hospital recovering from his injuries. Both officers were struck while defending the public.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that gunman Naveed Akram woke from a coma on Tuesday and is expected to be charged. Lanyon defended the use of handguns by operational police, stating they are appropriate for standard duties.
