Tori Johnson, the manager of the Lindt Chocolate Cafe where the hostage crisis went down in Sydney Australia this week, and barrister and mother of three Katrina Dawson, died on Tuesday.

Sydney Hostage Crisis Deaths

Both Johnson and Dawson had been inside the Martin Place cafe when Man Horan Monis entered and held all of those present hostage. They were among the more than a dozen individuals who remained inside the establishment at around 2 a.m. Tuesday when Sydney police, clad in riot gear, conducted a raid to save them.  In the raid, which was caught on video, explosions from flash grenades and exchanging gunfire can be heard.

During the raid, Johnson, 34, attempted to put a halt to Monis firing his weapon and attempted to wrestle the gun away from his captor. In the fight, Johnson ended up suffering a fatal gunshot wound.

“We are so proud of our beautiful boy Tori, gone from this earth but forever in our memories as the most amazing life partner, son and brother we could ever wish for,” said Johnson’s parents, Ken and Rosemary, upon learning of their son’s death.

“We’d like to thank not only our friends and loved ones for their support, but the people of Sydney; Australia and those around the world for reaching out with their thoughts and prayers.”

Dawson, 38, had worked as a barrister at Eight Selborne Chambers, which is located across the street from the site of the hostage siege. She died at a local hospital from her injuries, and is survived by her husband Paul and three young children – Chloe, Sasha and Olive, reported The Australian.

“Katrina was on her way to becoming one of the leading barristers at the bar. She was also a dear friend to all of us and will be deeply missed,” a statement from Dawson’s law firm read. “Our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. We also send our condolences to everyone affected by this tragic event. We thank all those who have sent messages of support.”

Four additional hostages were wounded in the raid, but all are expected to survive their injuries.

 

Leave a comment

Read more about: