Independence Police Chief Brad Halsey says he is "amazed" at the progress Officer Thomas Wagstaff has made in his recovery but cautioned there is still a long road ahead.
Wagstaff was shot while responding to an armed robbery on March 29. He was recently transferred to Centerpoint Medical Center, a long-term rehabilitation facility.
He also said police have been "overwhelmed" by the support shown from communities all around the area.
Read Chief Halsey's full statement below.
Independence Missouri Police Officer Tom Wagstaff, who was shot and critically injured in the line of duty on March 29th, has been transferred from Centerpoint Medical Center to a long-term rehabilitation facility.
We are amazed at the progress he has made so far in his recovery, given the initial medical information we had following the incident. Though there have been some positive steps recently, it is important to remember that there is still a long road ahead for Tom in his recovery efforts. While we are confident that Tom will continue to amaze us with his strength and courage, as he has so far, we know that there are going to be good days and bad days during this process. What will carry him through is the continued thoughts and prayers from all of us, and the amazing bond that guides us through all of life's difficult times.
Our police family has been overwhelmed with the support of not only this community, but from communities all around the Kansas City area. I have been with the police department for 24 years and I have never doubted the support of the community and first responders, however I have been strongly reaffirmed that this community is special and unwavering in the support it provides the men and women of this police department. We want to thank the numerous outside law enforcement agencies, Independence Fire Department, AMR ambulance service, organizations and businesses that have assisted us since this incident occurred.
We are also thankful for the treatment and care provided by Centerpoint Medical Center and the understanding that they have shown for our unique procedures in situations like these.
Tom’s entire family wishes to express their thanks to the surrounding community for all their heartfelt love and support throughout this incident. The family wants to thank the entire staff of Centerpoint Medical Center, especially the ICU staff, who provided amazing care for Tom during his stay there. The family also wishes to express their deepest gratitude to all the surrounding churches for the prayers and support during this incident. They truly have comforted them during this difficult time. Lastly, Stacy, Tom’s wife wants to express her thanks for the love and support from the Raytown School District.
We have done our best to respect the privacy of the family during this ordeal and any information we relay publicly has been done so with their permission.
