Injured Joplin Police Officer Rick Hirshey released to return to work

JOPLIN, Mo. – Officer Rick Hirshey was critically injured during an officer-involved-shooting on March 8, 2022. Tragically two other officers, Cpl Ben Cooper and Ofc Jake Reed, died of injuries sustained during the incident with a now-deceased subject.

Ofc Hirshey has been recovering since his release from the hospital and has now been released to light duty status the Joplin Police Dept state.

The Joplin Police Department is happy to announce that Officer Rick Hirshey has been cleared to return to work on light duty status and reported back to JPD.” – Capt William Davis, PIO

He is not cleared for full enforcement duties, however as of Monday, June 20, he is now assisting with administrative duties at the department.

THE JOURNEY TO WELLNESS

Ofc Hirshey was hospitalized for 8 days before being discharged and has spent the last 96 days at home recovering and healing from his wounds. “We are proud to welcome him back and wish him the best as he continues his recovery process to get back to full duty,” Joplin Police state in a release of information.

Ofc Hirshey has made public appearances during his recovery to raise money for the fallen two officers. He threw out the first pitch recently at a Joplin Outlaws baseball game.

> RELATED: Running 4 Heroes Memorial Run raising money for fallen Joplin officers

He made an appearance at the Bright Futures, Guns and Hoses Charity Basketball Event. And he posed for photos at the Running 4 Heroes event in late April.

Stay with Joplin News First on KOAM News Now as we continue to follow this developing story. Scroll below and sign up for our JLNews1st email alerts so you don’t miss an article.

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Joplin Police Officer Rick Hirshey goes home from hospital to continue recovery

JOPLIN, Mo. – With the fanfare of a hero Joplin Police Officer Rick Hirshey was released from Freeman Hospital West just after 11 a.m. on Wednesday.

Ofc Hirshey has been hospitalized since March 8 when he suffered a gunshot wound to the face in an exchange of gunfire with a now-deceased subject at 9th and Connecticut.

Upon arrival to the area that afternoon, in the midst of gunfire, Hirshey used his patrol car to block the subject from driving away in a van he was attempting to steal.

“At a time when there is great sorrow and sadness, God gave us a reason to celebrate and be joyful. This morning, Officer Rick Hirshey was officially released from the hospital and given a HERO send off. We are so thankful to all of the Freeman Health System doctors, nurses, administrative staff, and all other employees who took such great care of our officers and personnel over the last week. We thank you so much and are forever grateful. Officer Hirshey still has a long recovery period so please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.” – JOPLIN POLICE DEPT

Ofc Hirshey retired from JPD in 2021 however returned to assist as there is a shortage of officers.

The Fraternal Order of Police for Joplin have a GO FUND ME that is working directly with the three officers families that are involved.  Donations can also be made in person at the Joplin Police Dept if you prefer to avoid GFM fees. Drop them off regular business hours M-F at 303 E 3rd, Joplin.