The police officer who was shot along with another other officer at a shopping mall in Joplin, Missouri this week “will not recover” from the injuries he sustained, according to a tragic new update.
Police Chief Sloan Rowland revealed on Thursday that patrol officer Jake Reed’s family had told how he was being prepared to donate organs. They said his “heroic actions” would “bring life” to others.
Rowland added: “We’re so proud, so thankful and forever in debt for his service to this community. … Jake is an outstanding young man.”
Reed was one of two officers who were shot in the confrontation on Tuesday at a shopping mall. Sadly, Cpl. Benjamin Cooper died from his wounds on Wednesday. A third officer, Rick Hirshey, who intervened later, remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
As per USA Today, officers Reed and Cooper were amongst the first to challenge 40-year-old Anthony Felix. Felix shot both men, stole a patrol car, and fled the scene.
After later crashing the vehicle, the suspect continued on foot, eventually crossing paths with the aforementioned Hirshey as he tried to steal another car. Hirshey positioned his own patrol car so as to prevent the theft. Felix then shot through the windshield, hitting him in the face.
Hirshey, a veteran of more than 20 years of service, retired three months ago, but had returned as a member of the “crime free” team. He is expected to survive his injuries, but faces a long road to recovery.
Felix’s rampage was eventually halted by Capt. William Davis, who serves as the department’s public information officer. Davis left cover and shot Felix, killing him and thus ending his spree.
“If not for Capt. Davis’ actions, additional officers and citizens could have been killed,” Chief Rowland said.
My heart goes out to the families affected by this terrible violence. And thank you to the brave officers who put themselves in harm’s way to stop Anthony Felix.
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