Home at Last: Pueblo Honors Final Officer Injured in March Shooting
Apr 13, 2025
Three weeks after a night that changed lives in Pueblo, the final police officer injured in the March 18 shooting has made it home and the city came together to mark the moment.Police cruisers lined the streets of downtown Pueb
lo on Saturday morning, lights flashing, not in response to an emergency but in celebration. Officers escorted one of their own home in an emotional homecoming that underscored the strength of the community.Its always a good sign when they get to go home and to be with their families, said Rebecca Jaeger with Pueblo Police Department. Theres nothing more healing than that.The return was not just a step forward for the officers but for their families as well, including Eliazar, whose father was among the three officers wounded that night.Just thankful God was able to bless all three of the officers, protect them all that night, and bring them home, Eliazar said. It really warms my heart knowing the character of my dad makes me proud, and proud that we have a strong Pueblo community here willing to support our officers, even when theyre knocked down. Because were stronger together.Its not the first time the community showed up. Just days after the shooting, Eliazars father was the first of the injured officers to return home, escorted by fellow officers and embraced by neighbors.These people take a stand for us every day, said Tammy Crook, a Pueblo resident. They have no idea what theyre walking into. And we just prayed and cried for them instantly.It was scary, said Aubriana, the child of a Pueblo police officer. These are my dads friends and were just here to support them.While the officers are now home, the recovery continues both physically and emotionally - but the city isnt going anywhere.Many of us are from Pueblo. This is our hometown, Jaeger said. Its very near and dear to us, and well continue to do what we can to make it the best community.As for Eliazar and his family, theyre finding comfort in togetherness and gratitude.Live in the present. Theres nothing that can replace the gift of time, he said. Always say I love you.____Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching. ...read more read less