ROCKSPRINGS, Texas -- A Rocksprings family says it's thankful to have a loved one back after he spent 10 months in prison, and his community shared that sentiment.

Gilmer Hernandez returned home after he spent the time in prison for shooting a vehicle that he claimed tried to run him over. After his gunfire hit an illegal immigrant inside the car, he was arrested.

Hernandez said that the experience not only changed his life, but also brought an entire community together.

In January, hundreds of residents gathered in downtown Rocksprings in an effort to free Hernandez.

The initiative soon spread all over the city. After he was released, the signs that called for his release were changed to welcome him home.

"What was great is, we have Gilmer home and he's safe and that's the day we've been looking for since this thing started," said Donnie Letsinger, sheriff of Edwards County. "He has to be a good guy, or he wouldn't have gotten this type of support from the community."

Other residents said the battle for Hernandez' freedom is one they won't soon forget.

"Hopefully, we can continue the same unity and face anything in the future as one," said Nick Gallegos, an Edwards County judge.

His family sad their homecoming celebration isn't over for Hernandez.

This weekend, they said, there is a special faithful homecoming celebration complete with a citywide barbecue. The celebration will also feature a proclamation from the city naming Hernandez Rocksprings' favorite son.

Hernandez said he is planning to go to work in the private sector but added that he would love to return to work in law enforcement if he can.