A Texas police officer has been left blind in both eyes following a "targetted" attack in Dallas.
The horrific ambush also tragically claimed the life of another officer from the Dallas Police Department.
As reported by the New York Post, Dallas Police Sr. Cpl. Karissa David is now recovering from the terrifying incident and faces months of intensive outpatient care.
The attack took place on August 29, when 30-year-old gunman Corey Cobb-Bey targeted police officers in a shocking spree of violence.
David had responded to the For Oak Cliff Community Campus, where Cobb-Bey had gunned down Officer Darron Burks, who was sitting in his car between calls. What unfolded next left the Dallas Police Department shaken to its core.
After shooting Burks in what Police Chief Eddie Garcia described as an "execution", Cobb-Bey turned his sights on responding officers.
Sr. Cpl. Jamie Farmer was the first to arrive at the scene, only to be met with a hail of gunfire from Cobb-Bey, who was armed with two handguns and two shotguns. Farmer returned fire but was shot in the leg as Cobb-Bey made his move toward David’s car.
As David stepped out of her vehicle, Cobb-Bey fired multiple rounds, hitting her in the face. Despite the severe injury, David returned fire before the gunman fled, leading officers on a high-speed chase. Sadly, Officer Burks was pronounced dead at the hospital, while David and Farmer were rushed into emergency care.
David’s injuries left her in critical condition, and although she’s now stable, the damage was devastating — she has lost vision in both eyes.
"She is currently blind in both eyes, and we ask for continued prayers for a miracle in that regard," David’s family shared in a heartfelt post on their GoFundMe page. The page has raised over $87,000 to help with the modifications needed for her home and tools to assist with her vision loss.
David, who recently married her husband, Josh, will soon undergo a major surgery as part of her ongoing recovery. “There are AI glasses, seeing-eye dogs, screen readers, smart appliances, and tons of other gadgets that will enhance her life moving forward,” her family said, expressing hope despite the circumstances.
The gunman, Cobb-Bey, was killed 25 miles from the scene of the shooting after leading officers on a chase. When he pointed a shotgun at pursuing officers in Lewisville, they opened fire, killing him on the spot.
Chief Garcia has been vocal about the nature of the attack, stating that Burks was “executed” in a "targeted" assault against police.
“Our officers were targeted by nothing more than the uniforms that they wear and for the brave and honorable job that they do,” he said. “I want to be clear here—the word ambush has been thrown around. That is not what happened here. Officer Burks was executed.”
On Facebook, the Dallas Police Department shared a glimpse at the outpouring of support the officers have had from the local community - as a cop car outside the station has been adorned with flowers and messages from the public.
"Thank you," the department wrote alongside a video. "Thank you for the outpouring of love and support following the tragic loss of our brother, and as our brother and sister officers continue to recover.
"We are grateful to our city, fellow first responders, and we feel the support from across the country."
As David’s recovery continues, her bravery and resilience in the face of such unimaginable tragedy have inspired an outpouring of support from the community. The road ahead may be long, but with the support of her loved ones and fellow officers, she’s not walking it alone.
