update. Craig's been released from the hospital. Ali's still in critical condition. here's a recent press release:
For further information: Date: September 28, 2012
Office of Public Affairs
858.974.2259
Lakeside Deputy-Involved Shooting
Acts of Heroism
As has been widely reported in the media, Lakeside OIS subject Daniel Robert Witczak had a bedside arraignment yesterday, at Scripps Mercy in Hillcrest. As this investigation has now proceeded over to the Office of the San Diego District Attorney, there will not be any further comment with regard to the incident/investigative details.
Deputy Craig Johnson has been released from Scripps Mercy Hospital today, and the family has asked for privacy while he recovers at home.
However, as this investigation has proceeded, Sheriff Bill Gore believes now is an appropriate time to highlight the bravery, loyalty, and dedication to duty our personnel displayed in the midst of potentially lethal gunfire. It is important the public knows the caliber of the deputy sheriffs that patrol their streets every day.
As an example, one of the deputies who initially went to the apartment with Deputies Perez and Johnson to arrest Witczak, physically shielded his partners after the shooting began. This deputy was able to assist Craig Johnson to a position of safety in the adjoining vacant apartment. Several responding deputies rushed toward the apartment in an effort to not only rescue their fallen comrades, but keep others from harm.
Sheriff Gore commented, "I wanted to take this opportunity, while the events of Tuesday are fresh in the minds of the public, to recognize the efforts of the many deputies, individually and collectively, who put their own lives at risk to save two of their own. I have never been more proud to be their Sheriff than I am today."