WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. – Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo is extending thanks and praise following last week’s shooting that left two of his deputies hospitalized.
In a social media post, he praised the wounded deputies for their professionalism and dedication to each other during the incident, in which a Peaceful Valley resident opened fire on them with a shotgun.
He’s thankful for the law enforcement, fire, dispatch medical and support personnel who responded and continue to care for the deputies and their families.
“I’d like to give thanks to the entire community. The support we received was overwhelming,” said Elfo. “At the hospital. The firefighters that were involved transporting them to the hospital. From every police agency in Whatcom County.”
He has high praise for three citizens who stepped in, some with their own weapons, to protect the deputies.
He calls them “humble citizen heroes” whom he promises will receive more formal recognition.
And he thanks everyone who has prayed and expressed support for the deputies and all law enforcement officers.