A probationary constable shot during the terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on Sunday has lost the sight of one eye, while questions persist over the number and experience of police officers on duty at the Hanukah celebration.
Jack Hibbert, 22, who joined the police only four months ago, sustained two gunshot wounds while patrolling the event on Sunday evening, according to a family statement. He was taken to intensive care, intubated, and underwent multiple surgeries. His family said he faces a long and challenging recovery, with additional operations required.
Another officer injured in the attack, Constable Scott Dyson, had been attached to the eastern suburbs police area command for 18 months. NSW Premier Chris Minns said at least three officers had been patrolling the park where the shooting occurred, with around 20 police on duty in the Bondi area including two detectives.
Former federal minister Josh Frydenberg criticised the security arrangements, saying it was inadequate to have just three police officers for a gathering of about 1,000 people in a heightened threat environment. NSW opposition leader Kellie Sloane echoed the concern, saying more needed to be known about police resourcing decisions for Jewish events.
However, Dr Vince Hurley, a former NSW police officer and criminology lecturer, said concerns about the officers' relative inexperience were unwarranted, arguing that even senior officers would have struggled in the chaotic scene. He said no amount of police training could deal with such an attack.
