WYOMING – The Casper Police Department identified the officer fighting for his life after being injured in a shootout last weekend.
With permission from his family, CPD said the injured officer is Jacob Carlson, a three-year veteran of the Casper Police Department. Carlson is a member of Patrol Team 4.
Officer Carlson is a United States military veteran, honorably discharged from the United States Army as a Sergeant. Officer Carlson’s military record was exemplary, having received awards in the following areas: Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Combat Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd Award), Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, NATO Medal, and the Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon.
Carlson remains in critical condition and has many more surgeries ahead of him. The medical staff of Wyoming Medical Center continues the complicated work of restoring him to full heath.
Yesterday, Carlson underwent another round of critical surgical procedures to address some of the most urgent of his medical needs. When the report from the surgical team was delivered to the assembled Carlson family, cheers of relief and excitement echoed through the hospital hallways as news spread of the apparently successful procedure.
“We are proud of Jacob and the strength he exhibits in this critical fight and we are awed and humbled by his obvious participation in the healing process. Although Jacob has not been able to communicate with his family, we look forward to being able to make him aware of all that is being done on his behalf,” the department stated in a press release.
The Casper Police Department acknowledged what it said was “humbling and inspiring support for Jacob” that has been manifest in so many different ways.
“We especially recognize the strength of Officer Carlson’s wife and family and their faith in Jacob’s will and his ability to recover.
Messages of support and encouragement have been received from law enforcement agencies across the nation. Local individuals and business have overwhelmed the Casper Police Department with kindness and generosity, according to police chief Keith McPheeters.
A GoFundMe account has been set up by a fellow officer for Jacob Carlson and his family.
