Family praises bravery of 22-year-old officer wounded in Bondi shooting

On 14 December, Probationary Constable Jack Hibbert, 22, was shot while on duty at Bondi Beach during a Chanukah celebration, suffering two gunshot wounds and now facing a long road to recovery, his family says.

Hibbert was part of the New South Wales Police presence at the annual “Chanukah by the Sea” event last Sunday when two armed men opened fire on the crowd, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens in what authorities have described as a terrorist attack with antisemitic intent.

His family’s statement said Hibbert was struck once in the head and once in the shoulder as he was patrolling and engaging with the community. He was rushed to intensive care, intubated and underwent multiple surgeries. Despite surviving, the injuries have resulted in loss of vision in one eye, and he will require further operations as part of his recovery.

Only four months into his service, Hibbert had taken on his role with dedication, the family added. They said that even after being seriously wounded, he continued to try to help others until he could no longer do so physically. Colleagues who were at the scene have visited him in hospital and spoken of his calm response under fire and commitment to protect the public.

Fellow officer Constable Scott Dyson, 25, remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition as he continues treatment for his injuries. Police and family statements have confirmed that he was also shot during the attack and underwent emergency care. Support has poured in from colleagues and the wider community as he begins what is expected to be a long recovery period.

In a statement, Hibbert’s family thanked the police force, medical staff and the wider community for their support and asked for privacy as they focus on his recovery. They described the outpouring of messages and visits as a great comfort during an incredibly difficult time.