NSW Police sergeant Peter Stone farewelled at Blue Mountains funeral

Family, friends and the police community gathered to commemorate the life of Sergeant Peter Stone, who drowned while rescuing his 14-year-old son at a south coast beach.

Hundreds of family and friends gathered on Thursday to pay tribute to Sergeant Peter Stone, who drowned while rescuing his 14-year-old son at a south coast beach earlier this month.

The mourners congregated at St Columba’s Catholic College Hall in the Blue Mountains for the full police funeral for the 44-year-old.

The highly regarded officer heroically lost his life saving his son who was stuck in a substantial rip at an unpatrolled Narooma beach on January 1.

Peter Stone has been remembered as a dedicated officer and good friend.

The off-duty police officer died saving his 14-year-old son from a rip near Narooma. Picture: 9News

Police Commissioner Karen Webb extended her condolences to Peter’s family and friends. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Gaye Gerard

There was a funeral procession with a marching escort at the end of the church service.

At the funeral, Inspector Adam Evans commemorated Sgt Stone’s life as a police officer, which began in 2000.

“Sgt Stone’s service history is a reflection of his good character, dedication to duty and passion for helping others,” Insp Evans said.

“On behalf of the Commissioner and colleagues of the New South Wales Police Force I wish to express my condolences to Peter’s family and friends on his tragic death.”

This funeral comes just days after a surfer and swimmer died in separate drownings along our state’s coast.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the 45-year-old was a well-liked and respected member of the force.

“Sergeant Stone was well-liked by all those who knew him, and we are not surprised by his selfless actions,” Ms Webb said.

“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.”

A funeral procession with a marching escort will travel along the College access road at the conclusion of the church service.