The family of one of the two NSW Police officers shot in Sunday’s terrorist attack at Bondi Beach has revealed the 22-year-old officer has lost the sight in one eye and faces a long and challenging recovery from his injuries.
In a statement released by NSW Police on behalf of the family of Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert (pictured), it was confirmed the young officer, who had just four months policing experience under his belt, sustained two bullet wounds while bravely responding to the incident – one to his head and another to his shoulder.
“Jack was on duty, patrolling the Hanukkah celebration interacting with the community at Bondi Beach, when the incident first occurred,” his family said.
“Jack was taken to ICU where he was intubated and underwent multiple surgeries. 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, with additional surgeries required.
“Jack is just 22 years old and has only been in the police force for four months. Even so, in the face of a violent and tragic incident, he responded with courage, instinct, and selflessness, continuing to protect and help others whilst injured, until he was physically no longer able to.
“Jack was simply doing his job – a job he deeply loves – driven by a commitment to protect the community, even at great personal cost.
“Many of his colleagues who were present on the night of the incident have visited in hospital and given testaments to Jack’s bravery during the incident, describing his devotion to his community. They described how Jack acted, he moved toward people in need, not away from danger, and continued helping others while seriously injured.”
The family described the support offered by the NSW Police Force and by hospital staff caring for their son had been “unmatched”.
“…and we are beyond grateful. We thank the wider community for their kindness, support, and prayers for Jack and our family during this difficult time.”
“We ask all to respect our privacy as we move through these next stages to support Jack and all his needs to a full recovery.”
