By Editor Holly Wagner
Holly@observernews.net
The South Shore community is expressing gratitude and relief after two Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputies were released from the hospital following a deadly ambush that left them wounded while responding to a call in Ruskin on July 16.
Deputy Sopharmony Muon and Deputy Colton Daniels were injured after authorities say a suspect accused of holding a woman hostage opened fire on responding deputies.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Muon was shot in the face as he exited his patrol vehicle. Deputy Daniels was struck in the neck while seated inside his patrol car. Despite the sudden attack, Sgt. Harrison Bashner quickly took a tactical position and returned fire, fatally stopping the suspect and preventing what officials said could have become an even greater tragedy.
Both deputies were airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, where they received emergency medical treatment. Deputy Daniels, a four-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, was released from the hospital shortly after the shooting. Deputy Muon, who has served with the agency for two years, has also been released and continues recovering.
Sheriff Chad Chronister described the attack as "a deliberate attempt to take the life of a deputy sheriff." Chronister continued, "The hand of God was with our deputies here today."
News of the deputies' release has been met with overwhelming support from residents throughout South Shore and Hillsborough County. Messages of encouragement, prayers and appreciation have poured in across social media and from community organizations, many expressing gratitude that both deputies survived the violent attack.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day while protecting their communities. Deputies routinely respond to unpredictable and potentially life-threatening situations, often placing themselves in harm's way to safeguard others.
The courage displayed by Deputy Muon, Deputy Daniels and Sgt. Bashner reflects the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who wear the badge.
Their actions during an extraordinarily dangerous encounter undoubtedly prevented additional loss of life.
As the deputies continue their recovery, the community remains united in wishing them strength and healing. Their survival has been welcomed as a blessing by residents across the area, who are grateful for the swift actions of the responding deputies and first responders.
The Observer News joins the community in thanking Deputy Muon, Deputy Daniels, Sgt. Bashner and all members of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office for their service, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to protecting the citizens of Hillsborough County.