Sgt. Richard Donohue, critically injured during shootout with marathon bombers, is retiring
“The day has come, but the future is bright,’’ Sgt. Richard Donohue said Tuesday.
MBTA Transit Police Sgt. Richard “Dic’’ Donohue, who was shot during the gunfight with the Tsarnaev brothers in Watertown following the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, announced his retirement from the department on Tuesday.
Donohue nearly bled to death after a bullet severed his femoral artery during the shootout between police and the two marathon bombers in the streets of Watertown. He returned to duty after two years of recovery last September, but still lives in near constant pain, according to the statement announcing his departure:
Following my injury, I committed myself to returning to active service in the department. It took nearly two years to accomplish that goal, fighting through pain and limitations, but I had a lot of help from some amazing doctors, my family, and my fellow officers. I did not want it to be taken from me without a fight. Unfortunately, I must now acknowledge the extent of my injuries and limitations. Physically, I cannot perform at 100 percent and must do what is right for myself, my co-workers, and my department. Therefore, I will step away from the job that I love so much. I am very proud to have served as an MBTA Transit Police Officer.
Police departments throughout the state, including Boston police, thanked Donohue for his service following his announcement.
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On social media, Donohue thanked those who have supported him since his injury.
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Despite his retirement, Donohue, 36, will remain active, according to the statement. He has accepted a position teaching criminal justice at a local college and will continue to serve as a board member for the American Red Cross.
“I am alive, and I have many plans for the future,’’ he said. “If I had a choice, I would continue to serve as a police officer for decades to come, but those were not the cards I was dealt.’’
Donohue and his wife, Kim, are also expecting a new addition to the family — a baby boy in April. The couple has a 3-year-old son, Richie.
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