French Hero Damien Guerot Granted Australian Citizenship After Thwarting Sydney Stabbing Attack

Heroic Intervention at Sydney Shopping Center

On April 13, Damien Guerot, a French national, bravely intervened during a stabbing attack at a Sydney shopping center, using a pole to stop the assailant who fatally stabbed six people. Guerot's quick action prevented further casualties by confronting the attacker, Joel Cauchi, on an escalator.

Rapid Grant of Citizenship

Following his heroic act, Damien Guerot was granted Australian citizenship in a remarkably swift process. He received his citizenship on Friday, just a day before his appearance on the French TV show France 5, where he shared his mixed feelings due to the mourning of the victims' families.

Recognition and Praise from Australian Prime Minister

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Guerot's "extraordinary bravery" and welcomed him to stay in Australia as long as he wished. The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of Guerot's actions, emphasizing the human courage displayed during the crisis.

Mourning and Reflection

Despite the honor of receiving Australian citizenship, Guerot expressed a sense of sorrow due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the event. His friend, Silas Despreaux, also noted the difficulty in moving past the incident, which was marked by significant loss of life.

Commendation for Police and Public Unity

The bravery of police officer Amy Scott, who pursued and neutralized the attacker, was also highlighted by Prime Minister Albanese. He commended the solidarity and mutual assistance shown by strangers during the attack, reflecting on the profound displays of human nature in times of crisis.