A young police officer has been left permanently blinded in one eye after being shot in the head while responding to the terror attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach, authorities have confirmed.
Probationary Constable's Miraculous Survival
Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, aged just 22, sustained severe injuries during the shocking incident on Sunday evening. The New South Wales Police officer was on duty, patrolling a Hanukkah celebration at the iconic beach, when the attack unfolded at approximately 6:47 PM local time.
Hibbert was struck by two bullets—one to his shoulder and another to his head. Despite the catastrophic wounds, he was rushed to hospital by first responders and admitted to an intensive care unit. Police have described his survival as "miraculous."
"Jack was taken to ICU where he was intubated and underwent multiple surgeries," a NSW Police spokesperson stated. "Although miraculously surviving, Jack's injuries have resulted in a loss of vision in one of his eyes and he now faces a long and challenging recovery ahead."
A Courageous Response in the Face of Danger
In a powerful testament to his character, colleagues and superiors have praised Hibbert's immediate actions. He had been a serving officer for only four months when the attack occurred.
"Even so, in the face of a violent and tragic incident, he responded with courage, instinct, and selflessness," NSW Police said in a statement. "He continued to protect and help others whilst injured, until he was physically no longer able to."
Officers present that night have visited him in hospital, describing how Hibbert moved towards those in need rather than away from the danger. "Jack was simply doing his job - a job he deeply loves - driven by a commitment to protect the community, even at great personal cost," the police force added.
Attack Leaves Devastating Toll
The broader context of the attack reveals its horrific scale. Fifteen innocent people were killed when father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram, armed with what police described as "long guns," opened fire on a crowd of more than 1,000 people attending the Jewish festival.
As of Tuesday afternoon, New South Wales Health confirmed that 25 people remain in hospital, with six in a critical condition. Sajid Akram, 50, was shot by police and died at the scene. His 24-year-old son, Naveed, is expected to survive his injuries and will face criminal charges.
The Hibbert family has issued a statement expressing they are "beyond grateful" for the support from NSW Police and hospital staff. "We thank the wider community for their kindness, support, and prayers for Jack and our family during this difficult time," they said, while requesting privacy to focus on his long road to recovery.
