After 30+ years on the job, Officer Mike “Mick” McClaughry was looking forward to retirement. But when he was called to investigate a disturbance call, things went tragically wrong.
Officer McClaughry was shot in the head and sent to the hospital in critical condition, clinging to life. Doctors said the road to recovery would be long and difficult – and that’s proving to be true.
Now, the community is rallying to help a man who has dedicated his life to public service.
Actor Chad Lindberg held a benefit over the weekend for the Mt. Vernon police officer who is well loved by the people in Mount Vernon.
Lindberg, who stars in the action film “The Fast and Furious” and is the son of a fellow Mt. Vernon police officer, said Officer Mick McClaughry is a family friend.
“I’ve known Mick for a lot of years,” he told KING-TV, adding that he saw McClaughry, 51, the night before he was critically injured in the shooting.
Wounded Washington officer in critical but stable condition
More about Officer Mike "Mick" McClaughry: https://t.co/WdSmK7vmkS pic.twitter.com/80ZxGv3QZS
— KIRO 7 (@KIRO7Seattle) December 18, 2016
“It was a no-brainer when this happened – that I wanted to do something,” the actor said.
Fans and supporters filled the Lincoln Theater Saturday night for an autograph signing and movie screening. All of the money raised will be used to help pay for McClaughry’s costly recovery.
“We’re here for Mick,” Lindberg said.
People have been asking how to help. Spread the word here 4 MVPD Officer Mick's @gofundme Page. https://t.co/MfGsn87Msw #SkagitStrong TY!
— Chad Lindberg (@ChadLindberg) January 9, 2017
A GoFundMe page for McLaughry has raised $60,000 toward its goal of $100,000.
The GoFundMe page reads:
On 12/15/16 Officer Mike McClaughry was investigating a disturbance call when he was shot in the head. Mike was transported to the hospital where had surgery and is currently is stable and critical condition. Although the extent of the damage unknown at this time, the family and medical professionals anticipate a lengthy recovery.
Mike has been a police officer for Mount Vernon Police Department for over 30 years. He was looking forward to retiring. He loves his job and serves his community, as both a police officer and as a citizen, with integrity and honor.
Mike’s wife, Linda, their children, family, friends, and law enforcement community are by his side right now. As a community, let’s come together and support officer McClaughry, his wife, and their children during this terrifying time of their life. I know his family appreciates your prayers and I ask that you continue to lift Mike up in prayer. Let’s also show support to Mike and Linda by donating to Mike’s fund. Thank you.
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