SAN ANTONIO – The family of SAPD Officer Bobby Deckard released a statement Wednesday night about the wounded officer's condition:
"We sincerely appreciate everyone standing beside us at this tough time in our lives. People from all over the country have reached out to us and it fills our hearts with pride to know that everyone was touched by Bobby's story to such an extent.
Unfortunately the doctors have reached a point where they can no longer do much to save Bobby's life. Although it pains us to let him go, we must begin to and are thankful for the fact that we have had these few precious days with him since he was injured. We do take pride in knowing that Bobby was doing what he loved doing; protecting the citizens of San Antonio.
We would again ask the media to respect our request for privacy during this trying time. Thank you all."
SAPD on Wednesday morning posted on its Facebook page that Deckard's vitals were "somewhat unstable."
"As the days pass and they weren't hearing a lot of good news, the hopes kind of started to fade," said San Antonio Police chief William McManus. "And the family, friends and department huddle closer together, hoping for the best."
Deckard was critically wounded Dec. 8 while chasing two burglary suspects, who remain in jail.
Both Shawn Ruiz Puente, 30 and Jenevieve Ramos, 28, were arrested in Wilson County. They are charged with shooting Deckard. More charges are pending.
"Officer Deckard was not scheduled to work that night," said McManus. "Out of a city this large, he happened to be waiting by the ramp where the car we were looking for entered the highway."
"He did a fantastic job, calling the chase, staying in control. He did it by the book."
A fund has been established for Deckard with Generations Federal Credit Union under the "Robert Deckard Benefit Fund." Credit card donations can be made by visiting this link.