Ohio Police Officer Wounded in Traffic Stop Shooting Leaves Hospital

An Ohio police officer who was shot multiple times, including once in the face, by a suspect running from a traffic stop last month was released from the hospital Monday.

The Mifflin Township police officer left Grant Medical Center in Columbus to the applause and cheers of friends, colleagues and other first responders, WBNS-TV reports. The officer, who is not being identified by the department, is a veteran of law enforcement, and Police Chief David Briggs said he has worked with him for over two decades.

"He was my first training officer coming out of the academy," said Briggs. "That's how far back we go. He trained me how to be a cop."

"He's happy to be alive,” he added.

The officer was seriously injured when he and his partner had pulled over a vehicle on May 28. When the vehicle stopped, a passenger—later identified as Daveonte Dixon, 21—allegedly jumped out and began running, with the officers in pursuit.

Both officers were shot and wounded when Dixon opened fire during the foot chase. Body camera footage captured the frightening incident.

The officer released from the hospital Monday was struck multiple times, including once in the face. He underwent two surgeries and spent time in the intensive care unit.

The other officer was struck in the arm and was released from the hospital the next day.

Dixon is in critical condition from a self-inflicted gunshot wound he suffered May 30, according to The Columbus Dispatch. He had shot himself when SWAT officers surrounded the Obetz apartment complex where he was hiding.

Briggs praised the work of the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshal's Service with catching up so quickly with Dixon. Nine other suspects also have been charged in connection with helping Dixon flee authorities.

"Anybody who helps a violent criminal deserves to be punished,” said Briggs said.