Detective Cesar Barraza revealed as officer who stopped Bondi terrorists after hiding behind tree

A young probationary police officer who was shot while putting his life on the line to protect others during the Bondi terrorist attack has been handed devastating outcome as he begins his slow recovery in hospital.

Officer Jack Hibbert had only been in the job for just four months and was on duty patrolling the Hanukkah celebration when the gunmen opened fire on December 14.

The 22-year-old sustained gunshot wounds to his head and shoulder - leaving him incubated in ICU.

He has undergone multiple surgeries since being admitted to hospital.

“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,” a statement released by Mr Hibbert’s family said.

“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.”

The young probationary constable had been visited in hospital by his colleagues who recalled his bravery in moving towards the danger during the attack to protect people.

“The support from the police force and hospital staff has 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.”

The detective who fired the shots that brought an end to Sunday’s massacre has also been identified and praised for his heroic efforts.

Detective Senior Constable Cesar “Cess” Barraza, a Bondi local, put his life on the line when he confronted the alleged terrorists on a footbridge.

From around 40 metres away, he fired the shots that fatally struck Sajid Akram, 50, and are believed to have seriously wounded his son, Naveed Akram, 24.

Footage from the incident shows the detective taking cover behind a tree before aiming his firearm and returning fire at the attackers. Dressed in a shirt and tie, Det. Sen Const Barraza exposed himself to danger as crowds fled the horrific scene below the bridge.

Police sources have praised his marksmanship and composure, describing his actions as “a once-in-a-lifetime shot”, from 40 metres away, that prevented further bloodshed.

A 16-year veteran of the NSW Police Force, Det. Sen Const Barraza was previously featured on the reality TV series Recruits, which followed new officers as they began their policing careers. In the show, a young Barraza explained his motivation for joining the force in simple terms: “I want to be a police officer because I hate crime.”

“When I see somebody run a red light I want to be able to pull them over right there and give them a ticket or at least cut their license

While Det. Sen Const Barraza’s experience spans 16 years, some of the first officers who arrived at the scene were far less experienced and confronted scenes of devastation.