The 14 year old boy who was critically injured in last week’s shooting is now awake, alert, and talking according to a recent report by KEZI.
After undergoing two separate brain surgeries, his family says he woke up yesterday and is showing real signs of recovery. Just days ago, he was on life support. Today, he is speaking. That alone feels like a miracle.
The shooting happened the night of February 17 in the Harlow neighborhood. Eugene Police say they responded around 9:46 p.m. to reports of gunfire near Marche Chase Drive and Kinsrow Avenue. Officers later found the teen in a nearby parking lot on South Garden Way with a gunshot wound to the head.
It is the kind of call no family ever prepares for.
On Friday, February 20, Eugene Police announced they arrested a juvenile suspect who has been charged with first degree assault. Because of the suspect’s age, authorities have not released a name.
Through all of this, the boy’s family has expressed deep gratitude for the doctors, nurses, first responders, and the community members who have been lifting them up in prayer and support. The road ahead will not be easy, but waking up and being able to speak is a powerful first step.
In a world that feels like it is moving too fast and breaking too easily, this is one of those moments that reminds us how fragile life is and how strong hope can be.
We will continue to keep this young man and his family in our thoughts.
