OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — In a positive update, a deputy struck by a vehicle while directing traffic is making meaningful progress.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office shared on Thursday encouraging news about Deputy Austin Rhodes’ condition, following a serious line-of-duty injury on Monday.
With permission from his family, the agency reports that Deputy Rhodes has undergone a surgical procedure that doctors believe was successful. He is now awake, alert, recognizing those around him, and responding appropriately — all promising signs as his recovery moves forward.
Deputy Rhodes was badly injured on February 23 while directing traffic at the intersection of U.S. 441 and Wolf Road. He had been assigned to the area due to a malfunctioning traffic signal when a vehicle entered the intersection and struck him with enough force to throw him a significant distance down the roadway. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, where officials initially listed him in serious but stable condition as evaluations and treatment began.
The crash occurred amid an already chaotic evening on Okeechobee roadways. Just minutes earlier, another law enforcement–related crash had taken place at U.S. 441 South and Charles Harvey Memorial Boulevard, prompting delays and rerouted traffic as emergency teams responded.
FILE – The crash occurred amid an already chaotic evening on Okeechobee roadways. Just minutes earlier, another law enforcement–related crash had taken place at U.S. 441 South and Charles Harvey Memorial Boulevard, prompting delays and rerouted traffic as emergency teams responded. (WPEC)
The Florida Highway Patrol is handling the investigation into the incident involving Deputy Rhodes.
Although Rhodes still faces a long path to full recovery, updates from his medical team have been consistently positive.
Sheriff Noel E. Stephen and Chief Deputy Michael Hazellief extended their deep gratitude to the many citizens, partner agencies, and law enforcement colleagues who have reached out with prayers, supportive messages, and offers of help. They say the overwhelming show of support has meant more to the Rhodes family — and to the Sheriff’s Office — than words can express.
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As Deputy Rhodes continues to heal, the Sheriff’s Office notes that there may be opportunities in the future for community assistance. Any such needs will be shared when appropriate.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office says it remains deeply grateful for the strength and unity shown by the community during this difficult time.