Retired Denver Officer Supports Deputy Hurt In Vegas Shooting
DENVER (CBS4) - A former Denver police officer critically hurt on the job is using his experiences to help a California sheriff's deputy hurt in the Las Vegas massacre.
Denver Police Officer John Adsit was run over by a car while escorting student protesters in January 2014.
He, along with a Douglas County sheriff's deputy injured in the line of duty, is working to get Deputy Jason McMillan an Action TrackChair to help with his recovery.
"He's got some space out in California that he'll need to get around and this chair will just be very valuable for him out there," Adsit said.
McMillan is recovering at Craig Hospital, miles away from their home in Riverside County, California.
"It just felt like I knew everyone, it felt like just back at home," he said.
McMillan was shot in the chest when a gunman opened fire at a Las Vegas country music festival in October.
"It's just a constant 'Pop! Pop! Pop! Pop! Pop!' sound," he said.
The bullet that struck him is lodged in his spine, causing him to lose the use of his legs.
McMillan was hurt while shielding his girlfriend, "I'm just putting my arms out and making myself as big as I can to protect her and all the people behind me."
Ella would save them both, dragging him across the field and over a fence for protection.
"I don't know how, she's a tiny little thing and she picks me up and gets me up over that fence somehow," he said.
"I was just trying to get us out," she said.
Doctors don't know if McMillan will ever walk again, but with their new family behind them, they're holding onto hope.
"We just want them to know that they're loved they're appreciated and support by not just law enforcement but by the community that they are a part of in our minds," Adsit said.
"I have a goal while i'm here and they help keep me focused," McMillan said.
To donate, visit AdsitStrong.org.
Karen Morfitt joined the CBS4 team as a reporter in 2013. She covers a variety of stories in and around the Denver metro area. Connect with her on Facebook, follow her on Twitter @karenmorfitt or email her tips.
