'Indeed A Superhero': Rookie Cop Shot In Line Of Duty 9 Years Ago Dies At 34

PARK FOREST, IL — A Park Forest police officer whose remarkable recovery from multiple gunshot wounds inspired many has died, the department announced Thursday. Detective Tim Jones died Wednesday. He was 34 years old.

Jones was critically injured in March 2016 while exchanging gunfire with an armed suspect who opened fire on officers. Jones, who was a Tinley Park native, had been with the department just a year at the time. He suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including two to the head.

"In March of 2016, Tim’s life changed forever when he was critically wounded in the line of duty," the department wrote. "He was shot multiple times while bravely taking an armed offender into custody.

"We were told he wouldn’t survive, but Tim had other plans. With the strength and determination that defined him, he fought back. Day after day, year after year, he pushed through challenges most of us can’t imagine. For nearly 10 years, Tim showed us what courage, resilience, and heart truly look like."

Jones' courage inspired a #TimStrong social media tag that went viral, reaching far beyond the Park Forest community. Thousands rallied around him as he fought to recover and find a sense of normalcy.

In 2018, the department featured Jones in a lip synch video challenge, a social media movement nationwide meant to show the lighter side of law enforcement.

"Jones’ spirit is summed up to many in the Park Forest community through the #TimStrong hashtag that gained popularity after his improbable survival following the March 19, 2016 shooting that nearly claimed his life," the post read, in part.

Park Forest's lip synch challenge not only worked Jones into the production, but made him the star. Two of the songs picked for the three-and-a-half minute music-mix video shared on Vimeo were the Counting Crows' "Mr. Jones" and Kanye West's "Stronger," no doubt a nod to the inspiring officer and the #TimStrong movement.

Featuring Jones in the production is what the department called a "triumphant twist" to the lip synch challenge, something that the department originally decided not to take part in.

"The impact of two gunshots to the head, fired from a suspect Jones was attempting to arrest following a reported residential break-in, resulted in a grave initial prognosis for the then 24-year-old rookie cop. Doctors suggested in the hours that followed the shooting that Jones’ chances of survival were slim," the department said at the time.

But not only did Jones survive, the department said he also made strides that were originally thought impossible, adding, "Jones showcases the strides he’s made in his cameo performance, repeatedly flashing his bright smile and occasionally taking on a lead role, while other officers dance around him and provide assistance by lip syncing some lyrics themselves."

In 2020, the department retired badge number 204—reserving it for Jones in perpetuity. It was the first time Park Forest police have ever retired a badge number for an officer.

"Typically badge numbers at the Park Forest Police Department are recycled as officers get promoted, retire, or otherwise leave and new officers fill those positions," said then-police chief Christopher Mannino. "We have never before reserved a badge number for an officer, however, it became clear that badge number 204 was clearly identified as being Tim’s both within the police department and within the community, so we felt that a great way to honor him would be to officially reserve the badge number through resolution by the Village Board."

The retirement of Jones' badge number was also commemorated with a plaque displayed in the lobby of the Park Forest police station.

The Village in 2024 paid homage to Jones on the eighth anniversary of the shooting. Village leaders donned special t-shirts and spoke about his bravery.

"As we wear blue to honor Tim Jones today, I am of the belief that superheroes are those who run to danger rather than run from it," Mayor Joseph Woods said at the time. "All in the interests of protecting and serving this Village, the best interest of Park Forest, our residents.

“Tim Jones, you are indeed a superhero. I can only trust and believe that we as a Village can glean from your Tim Strong courage as we face our challenges and our triumphs, collectively as well as individually. Thank you and your family for your service."

Jones’ locker remains at the Park Forest Police Department, where he was made an honorary detective. A Tim Jones street sign was hung from a light pole on Indianwood Boulevard, just steps from where a dozen Park Forest police vehicles park, one with "Tim Strong 204" printed in large blue letters across its back doors.

"Yesterday, Tim’s long and difficult battle came to an end," the Park Forest Police Department said Thursday. "And while our hearts are broken, we remain incredibly proud of the fight he gave. Tim will always be an inspiration and a reminder of the power of strength, faith, and the unwavering support of family and loved ones.

"We would also like to thank the community for that steadfast support throughout the years. From every blue porch light to the viral #TimStrong hashtag, we saw our community rally around Tim, and we are truly grateful."

Public funeral arrangements had not yet been finalized as of Thursday morning, the department said.