By Andrea Castillo
The Fresno Bee
MODESTO, Calif. — Mariposa County sheriff’s deputy Rudy Mirelez, shot twice in a gunfight Oct. 1, is a 10-year veteran.
The sheriff’s office released Mirelez’s name Sunday, saying he remains in critical condition in a Modesto hospital where he will undergo many more surgeries.
Mirelez’s family released a statement thanking the sheriff’s offices in Mariposa and Stanislaus counties for supporting the recovering deputy around the clock.
“The outporing of community support for Rudy has been inspiring and amazing,” the statement says. “Rudy’s recovery is our biggest concern and we would like to ask for your continued thoughts and prayers and request that you respect our privacy as we continue to process this tragic event and support our husband and father.”
Mirelez was shot in the face and torso. Sheriff’s office spokeswoman Kristie Mitchell said Friday that he was able to respond to voice commands and make eye contact with visitors.
Brian Ballasch, 35, of Merced, is accused of shooting at four deputies around 6 a.m. on Oct. 1 on Highway 49, south of Mariposa. He was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder of a peace officer.
Ballasch, whom deputies have described as a Marine veteran suffering from post-traumatic-stress disorder, also was wounded and is expected to recover.
Mitchell said Sunday that the four deputies, including Mirelez, were placed on paid administrative leave following the shooting, which is standard protocol. She said the others, whose names have not been released, weren’t injured.
The shooting remains under investigation.
You Can Help
The Mariposa Deputy Sheriff’s Association established an account at West America Bank to assist Deput Rudy Mirelez’s family. Donations can be made to account No. 0168484285 at any branch of West America Bank or mailed to P.O. Box 157, Mariposa CA 95338.
Copyright 2015 The Fresno Bee