Richmond Police Department leaders say that there have been some “bright spots” in wounded Officer Seara Burton’s recovery, but she remains in critical condition a week after she was shot during a traffic stop.
On Aug. 17, Chief Mike Britt and Majors Jon Bales and Aly Tonuc, who both serve as deputy chiefs, collaborated on a news release to provide an update on Burton and her K9 partner one week after the Aug. 10 incident in the 200 block of North 12th Street.
They said Burton is “continuing to fight” for survival at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio, and her condition is “still very serious.”
“The doctors and nurses are providing her with the best possible medical care, and we are very grateful,” the statement said, noting officers and local residents continue to hope and pray for the recovery of the 2012 Northeastern High School graduate who was to be married this weekend.
“Many times over the last week we have been humbled by your support,” police said, asking the public to join them in continued prayers for Burton and her family, RPD and the community.
The trio said Burton’s colleagues are navigating through some difficult times as they wait to see her progress, but they are strong and pulling together to support each other.
Officers are receiving full support from RPD administration and city officials as well as the community as a whole, the statement said.
They thanked local residents and businesses “that have showed an unbelievable amount of support” for Burton and K9 partner Brev, who was not injured during the incident.
Brev, a male dog, is currently being cared for by one of RPD’s investigators who is a former K9 handler.
“He is in excellent hands and is being cared for in the best possible way,” police said.
Burton, a 4-year officer with RPD, was promoted in February to be Wayne County’s first female K9 officer, and she and Brev went through training together earlier this year.