Fort Smith police officer Kyle Newman was critically injured in the line of duty and has been honored for his bravery and commitment to public service. Officer Newman was shot in the neck on May 17 during a traffic stop involving a suspected drunk driver, 27-year-old Joshua Keller.

Incident Details

According to police, Newman was injured while attempting to stop Keller from leaving the scene. During the struggle, Newman returned fire as he fell to the ground. The incident led to a chase that ended in a crash on Interstate 540, where police said Keller died after being shot by officers.

Newman, a rookie officer and former Marine, spent weeks in the ICU before returning home to recover with his family. Despite the challenges, Newman expressed his determination to return to work. “Yes sir,” Newman said. “This is my calling to help serve and protect.”

Congressman Steve Womack honored Newman with a medallion for his service, calling it a “miracle” that Newman survived the “horrific circumstances” he faced in May. “It is a miracle that we were honoring him today,” Womack said.

Newman expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received. “I just want everybody to know that we’re eternally grateful for all their support and love,” he said. His wife, Racquel Newman, shared her support for his decision. “I made a vow to him that I would love him through whatever he decided to do, and I’m here doing that,” she said.

Fort Smith Police Chief Danny Baker said there will always be a place for Newman at the department, though it is unclear when he will be cleared to return to duty. Arkansas State Police are investigating the shootings on Interstate 540, and the investigation is ongoing.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.