UPDATE: Georgia deputy shot in ambush-style attack released from hospital

Lamar County Deputy Justyn Weaver (right) was released from the hospital Thursday, the sheriff's office said.

Credit: Lamar County Sheriff's Office

Credit: Lamar County Sheriff's Office

Lamar County Deputy Justyn Weaver (right) was released from the hospital Thursday, the sheriff's office said.

A Middle Georgia deputy was released from the hospital Thursday after being shot Saturday night in an ambush-style attack, the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office said.

“Deputy Justyn Weaver has been released from the hospital,” the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook. “He was welcomed back home by his law enforcement family. Thank you for all of the prayers and support. He will still have to endure physical therapy. We are glad to have our hero Justyn Weaver back and in one piece!”

Weaver, who has worked for the agency for three years, was met with “numerous shotgun blasts to his vehicle” while responding to a suspicious person call about 10 p.m. in Milner, AJC.com previously reported.

He suffered injuries to his face and arm and was flown to a hospital in Atlanta. On Wednesday, he underwent surgery.

“He is progressing well but does have a long road of recovery ahead,” the sheriff’s office said Wednesday in an update on Facebook. “All of your thoughts and prayers are appreciated more than we can say.”

Deputy Justyn Weaver has been released from the hospital. He was welcomed back home by his law enforcement family. Thank...

Posted by Lamar County Georgia Sheriff's Office on Thursday, August 13, 2020

According to the sheriff’s office, an account has been set up for those wishing to donate to the injured deputy. Money can be directly deposited into the Justyn Weaver Benefit Fund at United Bank.

“Donations will also be accepted at the sheriff’s office and we will happily deliver any cards or letters you may feel led to send,” the sheriff’s office said. “Please continue to pray for a speedy (and) complete recovery for Deputy Weaver and thank you all for your support during this difficult time.”

The man accused of shooting Weaver was identified as 38-year-old Donald Chandler Gordy of Barnesville.

He was arrested the night of the shooting in St. Clair County, Alabama, after deputies there spotted his white pickup truck on I-20 and took him into custody, authorities said.

Gordy was returned to Georgia and is being held at the Spalding County Jail on charges of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and criminal damage to property, the sheriff said.

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