Arizona tribal police officer out of ICU after being wounded by gunman last week

PHOENIX — An Arizona tribal police officer who was shot during an incident in Camp Verde last week has been moved out of intensive care and remains in stable condition, authorities said on Tuesday.

Sgt. Preston Brogdon, a five-year veteran, was shot once in the abdomen while responding to a shots fired call near State Route 260 and Cherry Creek Road on Feb. 9.

“He continues to show incredible strength and determination to heal,” Nathan Huibregtse, Yavapai-Apache chief of police, said in a press release.

“We are so grateful for Sgt. Brogdon’s medical team, as well as every person and agency who has reached out in support and prayer. Preston has a long road to recovery ahead of him, and we will stand behind him every step of the way.”

Brogdon has undergone multiple surgeries to repair the damage to his abdomen, authorities said.

He also suffered a shattered pelvis and hip, authorities said, which he will not undergo surgery to repair.

Brogdon was transferred to an intensive rehabilitation facility.

A manhunt is underway for the accused shooter, 39-year-old Valentin Rodriguez, who allegedly assaulted two tribal officers and discharged a firearm in a violent crime before fleeing on foot.

Rodriguez is described as a Hispanic man who stands 5-foot-9 and weighs around 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

The FBI said it was offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Rodriguez.

Anybody with information about his whereabouts was asked to call the FBI in Phoenix at 623-466-1999.

The FBI reward is in addition to $10,000 offered by Yavapai Silent Witness, which takes anonymous tips online or at 800-932-3232.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

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