Southeast Texas tornado: CPD Lieutenant in critical condition, home destroyed during tornado
TRINITY COUNTY, Texas - As a powerful storm ravaged their Trinity County property, a 22-year veteran of the Conroe Police Department and his wife found themselves caught in the path of destruction.
Lieutenant James ‘Jimmy’ Waller sustained critical injuries during the event and is currently hospitalized, undergoing treatment for his injuries which are expected to require multiple surgeries. His wife was also injured but is receiving treatment and remains with him during his recovery.
The two were on their property in Trinity when the tornado touched down.
"So you can see where the trailer ended up over there," said Brant Pee, a neighbor and friend of Waller. "She was found out there in the pasture, halfway to the pond and Mr. Jimmy was underneath his trailer."
Concerned by the strong winds and loud storm, the neighbor tried calling Lieutenant Waller to check on him. When he couldn’t reach him, he went over to find the couple’s trailer which was reduced to rubble.
"To literally find her on her back, disoriented was, I had a sigh of relief to at least find her," said Pee. "Jimmy, I could hear him moan, so I went to hollering. I finally found him underneath his trailer."
In a heroic rescue, the neighbor raced against time to save his friend in the middle of pouring rain and lightning.
"Get him conscious. get him kind of stable, talking to him, making sure he’s staying awake," said Pee.
"What we’re being told is he is in serious, but stable condition," said Sheriff Woody Wallace of the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office. "And on top of losing everything, you know, he’s still got a long road to haul with his injuries and recovery."
"I’m so thankful that Jimmy is alive. Because if I didn’t come down here, there’s no telling what would have happened," said Pee.
In response to the community's desire to help, the Conroe Police Officer’s Association has set up a GoFundMe page to provide financial assistance to Lieutenant Waller and his family. This GoFundMe page, the only official donation location, aims to support the family as they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives in the wake of the tornado.
Expressions of support, such as cards and well wishes, can be sent to the Conroe Police Department Reception Desk.
While respecting the privacy of the Waller family, no further information regarding their situation will be released. However, the community has shown solidarity, expressing appreciation for the efforts of Sheriff Wallace, the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, first responders, and medical professionals who have assisted Lieutenant Waller and his wife during this difficult time.
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As Lieutenant Waller and his family face a lengthy recovery process, the support from the community serves as a source of encouragement during this challenging period.
