COBB COUNTY, Ga. — A mother and daughter who were shot and left for dead had an emotional reunion Wednesday with the police officers who saved their lives.
Alexus Washington, 16, was shot in the heart at her home in Austell back in August, and managed to survive. Her mother, Hope, was shot four times. Officers said they weren't sure either woman would make it through.
"I got shot in the head and it actually went through my face,” said Hope Washington.
The officers came bearing a gift basket that included a heart pendant for Alexus.
"I'm so amazed. The doctors are dumbfounded by her situation. She actually was shot in her heart muscle. It actually took a chunk out,” said Hope Washington.
In August, as the officers struggled to save their lives, along with arriving first responders, other cops caught Hope's estranged husband nearby. Clarence Washington remains in jail without bond.
It was Alexus who insisted on the reunion shortly after returning to South Cobb High School. Her principal, Dr. Ashley Hosey, helped her organize it.
"Because they're heroes. Who wouldn't want to meet the heroes who came and saved their lives? They saved my life,’ said Alexus. “I mean, they've been through it all. They're just like a support system."
There was no talk about what led up to the shooting Wednesday. It was not a day about law and order, but about a mother and daughter with a future thanks to those who rushed to their aid.
"You never see all the good things police officers do and aid people in saving their lives,” said Hope. “The first responders who came in, helped Alexus. (Without them), she might not have been here today."
Alexus still has a lot of restrictions, is on several medications, and faces more open-heart surgery to repair the damage to her heart.
This weekend, Alexus will be on South Cobb High School’s homecoming court.
WSBTV
