A police officer hailed as a hero for his actions during the deadly Bondi Beach attack has been joyfully reunited with his colleagues, after waking from a coma and spending more than a month in hospital.
A Long Road to Recovery
Constable Scott Dyson, aged 25, was seriously wounded by gunshot wounds on December 14 while attempting to save lives. The attack, which targeted a Hanukkah celebration, resulted in the deaths of 16 people and left 42 others injured. Constable Dyson was rushed to hospital and placed in a coma, from which he awoke on December 23.
After 31 days of intensive treatment, he was finally discharged. In a heart-warming display of camaraderie, his first port of call was his own police station. The Police Association of New South Wales shared the positive news on Facebook, stating: ‘It was all smiles at the Eastern Suburbs PAC tonight as Constable Scott Dyson dropped into Bondi station to catch up with his brothers and sisters in blue upon his discharge from hospital.’
Tributes and Ongoing Healing
The association's post highlighted the unique bond within the police force, noting that ‘not many occupations would see someone want to drop into work upon getting out of hospital’. They confirmed that Constable Dyson will continue his recovery at home for an extended period before aiming to return to full duty.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns led public tributes, writing directly to the officer: ‘Scott, we owe you so much for your bravery and sacrifice on December 14. Thank you so much.’ The officer's mother provided a further update, revealing her son was ‘on the improve’ and managing to walk steps. He is scheduled for shoulder surgery in the coming weeks, which is hoped will aid his full recovery and eventual return to service.
Community Support and Alleged Attackers
The public response to Constable Dyson's bravery has been immense. A fundraiser established to help him ‘rebuild his life’ has raised an astonishing A$660,000, dramatically surpassing its original A$25,000 goal.
Meanwhile, the alleged perpetrators of the attack have been named. Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, are accused of opening fire on the crowds marking the Jewish festival. Sajid Akram was killed during the incident. Naveed Akram now faces 59 charges, including 15 counts of murder and terrorism offences.
