Paramedic Responsible for Leak of Graphic Photo of Shark Attack Survivor’s Leg

A paramedic has been identified as the person responsible for leaking sensitive photographs of shark attack survivor Lauren O'Neill, according to NSW Ambulance. The organization issued an apology to O’Neill and her family, acknowledging the breach of privacy and the distress caused. An investigation is underway to determine the full details of the incident.

Furthermore, NSW Police are separately investigating their own officers after photographs of O’Neill’s injured leg were provided to government scientists and eventually surfaced on social media. The images were securely stored and only shared with a small group of specialists for species identification purposes. The privacy breach has been condemned, and a spokesperson for the Agriculture Minister, Tara Moriarty, expressed gratitude towards the Department of Primary Industries scientists for their assistance during the incident.

The leaked photograph in question shows O’Neill’s leg held by a person in plastic hospital gown and blue gloves, revealing fresh, gaping wounds. The image was taken shortly after O’Neill’s arrival at St Vincent's Hospital, where doctors performed a marathon surgery to save her leg. The hospital has also apologized for any role it may have played in the photos being taken.

Lauren O’Neill was attacked by a bull shark on Monday night while swimming near a private wharf in Elizabeth Bay. Thanks to the quick response of her neighbors and the heroic actions of New South Wales ambulance paramedics and Kings Cross police, she survived the attack. O’Neill’s family expressed gratitude for the assistance provided and the skill of the surgical team at St Vincent’s Hospital.

This incident brings attention to the importance of patient privacy and the consequences of privacy breaches within the healthcare profession. NSW Ambulance is taking the matter seriously and continuing its investigation into the incident.