DPS Trooper Shot in Line of Duty Joins Fundraiser for Recovery
MESA, AZ — Trooper Sean Harkins, who was shot in the line of duty during a traffic stop on June 19, has joined a fundraiser organized by the MASA project of Arizona to help support his recovery. The community showed their support by attending the fundraiser held at a local restaurant in Mesa.
The incident unfolded when Harkins’s body camera captured the moment he was shot in the leg by a suspect who fled the scene. A rolling shootout with the police ensued, ultimately resulting in the suspect crashing into a wall. The suspect was later found dead with a gunshot wound.
Despite being wounded, Harkins remained remarkably composed and managed to reach for a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. He also provided a description of the suspect to another officer who arrived at the scene. Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Harkins described it as the worst dead leg ever.
Recovering from his injuries hasn’t been easy for Harkins. It has been a month and a half since he took a bullet to the thigh with an exit wound. He admits that at times, it felt like his recovery would never improve. However, the presence of the community at the fundraiser offers a glimmer of hope.
The fundraiser featured a live band that performed free of charge, and a portion of the restaurant’s earnings, along with contributions from an ice cream truck and a raffle, will go towards Harkins’s recovery. The support and solidarity shown by the Mesa community have brought comfort and encouragement to the trooper.
Despite the physical and emotional challenges he has faced, Harkins remains steadfast in his commitment to his job. When asked if the shooting has changed his perspective on his career, he replied, As far as the job itself and what that entails, there’s nothing changed about that. I still believe we do good. Harkins is determined to return to the force once he has fully healed.
Missing out on overtime opportunities while he recuperates has posed financial difficulties for Harkins and his family. Providing the life he wants for his wife and two children has become more challenging. However, the fundraiser and the overwhelming support from the community have instilled a renewed sense of purpose in Harkins.
He acknowledges that the outpouring of support reaffirms why he chose his profession. He aspires to make a positive difference, no matter how small, and the appreciation he receives from others reminds him that his efforts are worthwhile.
The road to recovery may be long, but the Mesa community has shown that Trooper Sean Harkins does not walk it alone. The fundraiser serves as a testament to the resilience and compassion of the community, and Harkins is immensely grateful for their unwavering support.
