Sergeant Peter Stone had been a member of NSW Police for 22 years and most lately labored on specialist rescue operations in Sydney’s Blue Mountains.
“Sergeant Stone was well-liked by all those who knew him, and we are not surprised by his selfless actions,” NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb mentioned in an announcement.
“His death is a tragic loss to the NSW Police Force and my thoughts are with Peter’s wife, family, friends and colleagues during this terribly sad time.”
Blue Mountains Police Area Commander Superintendent Don Faulds described Stone as an “exceptional man, a brilliant operator”.
“Peter had dedicated his professional life to helping the community and had a real passion for rescue operations, particularly here in the rugged mountain terrain,” Faulds mentioned.
“He was always quick – if not first – to offer his help or assistance around the command and his colleagues considered him a mate.
“As we mourn our mate, we acknowledge the lack of a husband, father and hero.”
Lifesavers rushed to the beach in an inflatable rescue boat at 1.30pm but despite giving CPR, Stone couldn’t be saved.
He’d been on extended leave from the force and was on holiday with his family when he rushed to the rescue of his son, who was caught in a “substantial” rip.
“He was capable of push his son out of the rip, he was then taken additional out to sea within the rip,” Acting Inspector Paul Hoyer mentioned.
“This is a tragedy which can reduce by to the household, his mates and workmates. It’s devastating.”
Hoyer also praised Stone’s actions before urging others to stick to patrolled beaches and swim between the flags.
”As a father, dad or mum and police officer, he was clearly doing what he must be doing,” he said.
On Tuesday, NSW Police launched an appeal in the sergeant’s honour to raise money for his family.
“This will not be the begin to 2023 that any of us wished, however we hope to supply some assist to Peter’s household throughout this extremely troublesome time,” they mentioned in an announcement.
