RICHMOND, Va. -- Richmond Police officer William Turner was released from VCU Medical Center Friday and will "continue his healing and rehabilitation process" at another facility, according to a Richmond Police spokesman.
Turner, a 30-year veteran of the Richmond Police Department, was shot in the stomach on Jan. 2 responding to a report of a man suffering from emotional issues in Richmond’s Fulton neighborhood. Another bullet grazed Turner's head.
Turner was able to return fire at the person who shot him -- Tamar X. Harris.
Harris, 20, of Old Denny Road, was released from the hospital Tuesday, appeared in court and then was sent to jail.
He was charged with aggravated assault and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
While Turner is on his way to a rehabilitation center, the Richmond Police Department and the community will be supporting him every step of the way.
"I thought it was a horrible, horrible event,” said Chris Gobble, Managing Partner, Home Team Grill. "My sister is a police officer up in Alexandria. And so, it really hit home.
“They have so many challenges these days of being politically correct and trying to make sure they resolve every situation,” Gobble added.
He and others are organizing a fundraiser here Sunday to help Turner and his family pay for medical expenses and offer emotional support.
"With everything going on in the country after Ferguson and everything, I feel like the officers aren't getting enough support that they need," said Gobble. "So, I really want to show that local businesses are supporting the Richmond police department."
Gobble says the goal is to raise $5,000 at Sunday’s event. They will auction off NFL Jerseys, sports tickets, and local artwork.
If you can’t attend the event, you can donate. Write a check to: The RVA Fire Police Credit Union Line of duty support fund.
