The police officer who fatally shot one of the gunmen responsible for the deadly Bondi Beach terror attack has been identified as Detective Senior Constable Cesar Barraza, a veteran New South Wales Police officer based in Bondi.
Barraza was among the first officers to respond as chaos unfolded during Sunday evening’s Hanukkah by the Sea event, when two armed men opened fire on crowds gathered near the beachfront. The attack left 15 people dead and at least 42 others injured, making it one of the deadliest mass shootings in Australian history.
Authorities say Barraza discharged his firearm from a considerable distance as he confronted the attackers, helping bring the rampage to an end.
Extraordinary long-range shot under investigation
According to investigators, Detective Barraza fired at suspects Sajid Akram, 50, and his son Naveed Akram, 24, from approximately 40 metres away. Police believe his shots killed Sajid and seriously wounded Naveed, who was later taken to hospital in a critical condition.
The shooting is now the subject of a critical incident investigation, a standard process whenever police use lethal force. Investigators interviewed Barraza on Wednesday and are continuing to examine body-worn camera footage, ballistic evidence and police radio communications.
While Barraza is believed to have fired the fatal shot, authorities say forensic analysis will ultimately determine which officer’s weapon caused Sajid Akram’s death.
‘Shot of a lifetime’ praised by experts
Barraza’s actions have been widely praised within law enforcement circles, with sources describing his response as the “shot of a lifetime.” The detective reportedly used a standard-issue Glock pistol, a weapon typically accurate at much shorter distances.
After arriving near Bondi Pavilion, Barraza took cover behind a tree and aimed toward a footbridge where the gunmen were positioned before opening fire. His accuracy under extreme pressure has been described as remarkable given the distance, limited cover and the fast-moving threat.
Barraza, who has served with NSW Police for 16 years, previously worked in the cybercrime squad and was featured early in his career on the reality television series Recruits.
Officers seriously injured during attack
Two other police officers were seriously wounded during the terror incident. Constable Jack Hibbert and Constable Scott Dyson remain in hospital recovering from gunshot injuries.
In a statement, Hibbert’s family confirmed he underwent multiple surgeries and lost vision in one eye after being struck while pulling civilians to safety. Constable Dyson, an elite water polo athlete who has represented Australia, was shot in the shoulder and abdomen and continues to receive medical care.
Both officers have been praised for running toward danger as members of the public fled.
Details emerge about the attackers
Police say Sajid and Naveed Akram arrived at Bondi Beach shortly before 6.40 PM in a silver Hyundai Elantra, armed with rifles and additional ammunition. From a bridge overlooking the beach, they allegedly opened fire on crowds celebrating the first night of Hanukkah.
Sajid Akram was killed at the scene, while Naveed was hospitalised and placed under police guard. He regained consciousness after spending two days in a coma.
Investigators have also confirmed the pair had recently travelled overseas, including a visit to the Philippines, a detail now being examined as part of broader counterterrorism inquiries.
The investigation into the attack, police response and possible extremist influences remains ongoing.