Tyler Moldovan, 22, who graduated from the police academy last March is in stable condition, Sgt. Ann Justus said. He “suffered severe and life altering injuries” and “will remain in the hospital for an undetermined amount of time.”
The statement said that one of Moldovan’s multiple gunshot wounds was to the head.
He was said to “endure extensive neurologic injuries,” his wife, Chelsea, said in a statement.
“The doctors consider his current condition to be stable, and he remains on a ventilator,” the statement said. “We have been praying for a miracle and see glimpses of one every day.
“We know Tyler recognizes those around him and responds with facial expressions like smiling. When no one thought he would, he opened his eyes. We hold onto our faith that Tyler will continue to make progress. He has been a miracle already and the progress he has made in three weeks alone is marvelous; the impossible is being made possible.”
The family expressed thanks for support from “our Phoenix police family,” health care providers and the community.
Moldovan was shot on December 14 as police searched an apartment complex for a man who ran from a car that was sought after being driven erratically. His condition was considered extremely critical, and he was not expected to survive, according to police.
According to police, Moldovan was shot after he found Essa Williams, a 24-year-old ex-convict, hiding in a covered patio.
Williams has pleaded not guilty to attempted first-degree murder, attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, resisting arrest and three counts of being a prohibited possessor of a firearm.
According to Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry records, Williams was released from prison in 2020 after serving three years for armed robbery and other crimes.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
