A police officer who miraculously survived being shot in the head during a terrorist attack at Bondi Beach faces a long road to recovery.
Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert was patrolling Australia’s most famous beach when Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed, 24, opened fire on scores of people gathered to celebrate the Jewish festival of lights.
The 22-year-old had only been part of the police force for four months when he was shot in the head and shoulder.
Despite his injures, he continued to help those around him until he physically could not go on.
Hibbert’s family has lauded his bravery, but admitted it cost him dearly.
“In the face of a violent and tragic incident, he responded with courage, instinct, and selflessness,” his family said in a statement released on Wednesday.
“Jack was simply doing his job – a job he deeply loves – driven by a commitment to protect the community, even at great personal cost.
“He now faces a long and challenging recovery ahead.”
The officer was intubated and underwent multiple surgeries after being rushed to hospital.
He has lost vision in one of his eyes and will require additional surgeries and treatment.
The Bondi terrorist attack resulted in the deaths of 15 people, alongside one of the gunmen shot dead by police.
Parents of Bondi shooting’s youngest victim recount her final moments – Watch on TVNZ+
Victims of the December 14 massacre are being identified, and their stories are being told.  (Source: 1News)
Among the victims were a 10-year-old girl, an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor, rabbis, a retired police officer and a father who ran at the gunmen hurling a brick.
A couple were believed to be the first victims as they tried to wrest a gun from one of the offenders as he arrived at the beach.
Scores more were hospitalised but, as of Wednesday, 21 remained in hospital with 12 in a stable condition, three in a critical condition, and six in a critical but stable condition.
Hibbert was not the only officer shot on the night, with another also injured and admitted to hospital.
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said he had visited both officers and their families.
“Their families are overwhelmed by the support they’ve received,” he told 2GB.
“Their bravery on that day and the fact they continue to complete their service is of great respect to us.”
The surviving gunman is expected to be charged on Wednesday.