A police officer seriously wounded in the Bondi Beach terror attack has woken from a medically-induced coma, marking a significant step in his long road to recovery.
Officer's Critical Condition and Awakening
PC Scott Dyson was one of two officers shot when gunmen opened fire on a crowd at Sydney's Archer Park on 14 December. His family confirmed that after being placed in a coma and undergoing surgery "almost daily", he has now been woken for the first time.
In a statement, they said: "Our family would like to share that Scott has been getting stronger each day, and today, he was woken up for the first time. There is still a long way to go in his recovery, but this is a positive sign." They expressed profound gratitude for the public support received during the ordeal.
Details of the Bondi Attack and Perpetrators
The attack, which unfolded near the famous beach, resulted in 15 fatalities and dozens more injured. The alleged perpetrators were Sajid Akram, 50, and his 24-year-old son Naveed.
Sajid Akram was killed by police at the scene. The pair are also alleged to have thrown homemade bombs at the gathering crowd, though the devices failed to detonate.
Naveed Akram has since been charged with 59 offences, including 40 counts of attempted murder. He was transferred from hospital to prison on Monday, 22 December. His charges also include:
- Discharging a firearm intending to cause grievous bodily harm.
- A public display of a prohibited terrorist organisation symbol.
- Placing an explosive in or near a building with intent to cause harm.
Recovery of Second Officer and Ongoing Aftermath
The other injured officer was probationary constable Jack Hibbert, 22, who was just four months into the job when he was shot in the head and shoulder. In a positive development, his family confirmed he has been discharged from hospital.
"While he is home, he is still recovering and will need space, support, and continued positive thoughts during this time," they said, adding that having him home for Christmas "truly feels like a miracle".
Health authorities stated that as of Tuesday, 12 patients remain in hospital receiving care following the Bondi Beach shooting, with four in a critical but stable condition. The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of one of Sydney's most devastating terror incidents.
