San Diego Police Sgt. Anthony Elliott was shot in the head in December 2023 during an exchange of gunfire with a suspect in a vehicle theft and a domestic-abuse case.
Elliott's injuries were so severe that they were surprised initially that he lived, much less that he was talking on the way to the emergency room. Sergeant Tony Elliott immediately underwent brain surgery. During the surgery, they realized they could not remove the main bullet as it was too deep in his brain. He was in critical care with a high mortality rate for days.
Elliott was paralyzed on the entire left side of his body after the shooting. He had trouble looking to the left and had no movement in his left arm or leg causing him to be completely immobile. Sergeant Elliott pushed through, and the six-year veteran's rehab began in the days following surgery, and intensified over the next few months. He began seeing small progress such as being able to move his left toes and taking his first steps. Eventually, he was able to walk again and was released from the hospital, arriving home to a hero's welcome.
Today, Sergeant Elliott has made a remarkable recovery within a short period of time even though the bullet remains in his brain. He has gained almost all movement and ability back after a few months and is running and lifting weights again. He continues to break barriers and be mentally and physically stronger than before. He's been documenting his ongoing grueling recovery on social media and speaking at events about mindset, well-being, and resilience.
