By Kieran Nicholson
Source The Denver Post
A Lakewood police agent, who was shot in an exchange of gunfire with a man who allegedly killed five people in Denver and Lakewood, was released from the hospital on Thursday as dozens of supporters clapped and cheered.
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Agent Ashley Ferris was shot on Dec. 27, in the Belmar area, in an exchange of fire with 47-year-old Lyndon McLeod. Ferris, who was shot in the abdomen, returned fire and killed the shooting spree suspect, according to police.
Ferris, a U.S. Army veteran, acknowledged and thanked hospital staff members who lined the halls, clapping and cheering, as she left being pushed in a wheelchair. As she exited the building Ferris pulled back a COVID-19 facemask and flashed a broad smile. Dozens more supporters, including fellow officers, continued the exuberant show of affection.
Ferris, sitting in a van, waved and said: "Thank you guys!" A handmade sign held by a person in the crowd thanked Ferris, proclaiming that she is a "Hero."
Ferris is now "back into the arms of her family & friends," Lakewood police said on Twitter. "Thank you #AgentFerris for your strength & heroism." She will continue in her recovery efforts.
"Our hearts are incredibly heavy with the loss of life and injuries suffered by others during this rampage," which Ferris ended, police said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cardenas, Gunn-Maldonado, Scofield, Steck and Swinyard families, as well as those who were injured and their families."
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