Tarrant County deputy released from hospital after shooting

FORT WORTH, Texas - A Tarrant County sheriff's deputy is out of the hospital a little over a week after he was shot twice by a suspect.

Deputy Brent Brown returned home on Friday for the first time since the shooting at the Fort Worth Community Credit Union in east Fort Worth on Monday, Nov. 27.

He left the hospital surrounded by supporters, as JPS doctors and nurses applauded him. There was also a contingent of patrol cars and officers to mark the hospital discharge.

"In this great season of hope, we today get to see victory and that victory is over evil," said Tarrant Sheriff Bill Waybourn. "Brent is going home. He is recovering greatly. He’s been through not only the gun battle, but he’s been through a battle the last few days."

Brown was shot in the upper chest and lower abdomen while working off-duty security at the credit union.

The suspect, Leland Williams, was seen on surveillance entering the lobby, acting erratically, and without warning, opening fire, striking Brown.

The deputy fought his way back to his feet and returned fire at Williams, who then fled the area.

"I've heard from all over the nation from people telling me they are praying for him," said Waybourn. 

Sheriff Waybourn shared that one of those calls came from actor Chuck Norris' mother.

Brown did not speak to the media, but gave a thumbs up and waved from the backseat of a vehicle. Waybourn said that the deputy is walking.

"His tenacity, his perseverance and his attitude should be copied by all of us," said Sheriff Waybourn.

The Tarrant County sheriff did not give an update on the investigation into the shooting, saying his department has been focused on Brown's recovery.

Williams is in the Tarrant County Jail, where he is charged with the attempted capital murder of a peace officer.