Texas Community Raises $80K for State Trooper’s Family After Shooting

Texas Department of Public Safety Officer Chad Walker responded to a call Friday that would ultimately leave him hospitalized and brain-dead after several gunshot wounds. But God—and his Texas community—shines a bright light of hope in the midst of this horrific tragedy.

Before Walker could approach the disabled vehicle, DeArthur Pinson Jr. “immediately emerged from the driver’s seat of the disabled vehicle armed with a handgun and fired multiple rounds at Trooper Walker through the patrol unit’s windshield.” Walker sustained injuries to his head and abdomen.

He was transported immediately to Hillcrest Hospital in Waco, Texas, where he remained in critical condition over the weekend.

The shooter, kxxv.com reports, died by suicide Saturday evening.

Upon learning what happened to the beloved officer, the community gathered in Waco to hold a prayer vigil, interceding for his recovery and for his wife, 15-year-old son, twin 7-year-old daughters and 2-month-old daughter.

HAPPENING NOW: Central Texans are participating in a prayer candlelight vigil for Trooper Chad Walker who is in critical condition at Baylor Scott and White Hillcrest @KWKTFOX44 pic.twitter.com/MhEDzfCQIP

— Nohely Mendoza (@_NohelyMendoza_) March 28, 2021

With the help of the Limestone County Fair and a GoFundMe account, the Texas community raised over $80K, with support still flooding in.

“I’m hoping that they felt the love of our community in that moment. I hope that they know we care. Our prayers are with you, we hope you pull through this, and we will be there for whatever you need,” said Tiffany Burleson, a family friend and the treasurer for the Limestone County Fair Association.

The Texas Department of Public Safety reported on Walker’s condition, saying the family made the courageous decision to honor his “final sacrifice” by giving “the gift of life” with the donation of his organs.

Texas Senator Ted Cruz tweeted his support and prayer for the family:

Praying for Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Chad Walker.

Please keep Trooper Walker and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
https://t.co/eNpBnTQ5bC

— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) March 28, 2021

Please join the Charisma News staff in prayer for all who knew and loved Chad Walker. {eoa}

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