Phoenix Police Officer Shot In December Still On A Ventilator

PHOENIX, AZ — Tyler Moldovan, the Phoenix Police officer shot while on the job Dec. 14, suffered extensive neurologic injuries and was still on a ventilator nearly a month after the shooting, according to a written update from his wife, Chelsea.

Moldovan, 22, was shot in the early morning of Dec. 14 near the intersection of 15th Avenue and Camelback Road, as he investigated reports of vehicles driving erratically.

Essa Williams, 24, was charged with attempted first degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, in addition to other charges, in connection with Moldovan's shooting. On Dec. 30, Williams pleaded not guilty to all charges.

After the shooting, Moldovan was rushed to St. Joseph's hospital.

"On December 14, 2021 my world was shattered when the love of my life, Tyler Moldovan, nearly lost his life doing what he loves, serving his community as a Phoenix Police Officer," Chelsea Moldovan wrote. "These past few weeks have been a blur. The emotional rollercoaster we have all been on has been unimaginable."

Although Tyler Moldovan remains on a ventilator, his wife said that he's already opened his eyes, something that no one expected. He now recognizes family and responds by smiling.

"We have been praying for a miracle and see glimpses of one every day," she wrote. "We hold onto our faith that Tyler will continue to make progress. He has been a miracle already and the progress he has made in three weeks alone is marvelous; the impossible is being made possible."

Moldovan just graduated from the police academy last March.

Chelsea Moldovan, along with the rest of the family thanked the community for its support.

"The doctors, nurses, medical staff and those associated with the hospital have been nothing short of incredible," she wrote. "The cards, letters, posts, blue ribbons and vigils that have been sent and carried out by our family, friends and the community have helped lift our spirits. I can’t say enough about our Phoenix police family who havebeen unwavering in their care and concern. Most importantly, the prayers have been felt and are witnessed daily."