NSW Premier backs Cross of Valour for Bondi massacre hero
NSW Premier Chris Minns and Opposition leader Kellie Sloane support giving the Cross of Valour to officer Cesar Barraza.
Senior Constable Cesar Barraza ran towards the shooters on December 14 without body armour or extra ammunition. He had heard a colleague call over the radio saying he had been shot.
Barraza was on his last shift before annual leave. He had worked in the cybercrime division for only six weeks.
Taking shelter behind a tree, Barraza shot Sajid Akram with his first shot using his new Glock 17 pistol. Cesar Barraza then fought with Naveed Akram.
The second shooter then exposed himself. Barraza shot him fatally.
Both shooters were down within seven minutes and 40 seconds of the first shot. NSW Premier Chris Minns met Barraza and called him brave, humble and dedicated.
The Premier said his actions saved many lives. Opposition leader Kellie Sloane and Nationals leader Matt Canavan also support giving him the Cross of Valour, the highest civilian bravery award.
Why it mattersThe officer acted fast under extreme pressure. He ended Australia's worst terror attack. He stopped further deaths and injuries. His quick thinking and accurate shooting matter to the whole nation.
AustraliaRecognising Barraza's actions reinforces the value placed on police sacrifice and bravery in responding to terror threats, setting a benchmark for civilian awards in Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 14 h ago
