VERNAL, Utah, April 30, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — The Vernal City Police Department is thanking the public for its support of Sgt. Chad Watt, the officer shot Saturday while responding to a weapons call.
Watt is a 25-year veteran who has dedicated his entire career to serving Vernal City, the department says in a Tuesday morning news release.
“Sergeant Watt sustained multiple gunshot wounds, and is currently in stable condition and receiving medical care at a hospital on the Wasatch Front. We want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support received from both our community and our extended law enforcement family during this difficult time.
“Your words of encouragement and acts of kindness mean the world to us and to Sergeant Watt’s family.”
Watt and other officers from his department, along with Uintah County Sheriff deputies, responded to an 11:20 p.m. call reporting a man who appeared intoxicated was threatening his neighbor with a gun.
“When law enforcement arrived, the suspect opened fire on police and sheriff vehicles,” an earlier sheriff’s statement says. “A Vernal City Police Officer was struck multiple times as he attempted to exit his vehicle. That officer and responding sheriff deputies then returned fire, striking the suspect.”
The Utah Highway Patrol statement named the suspect as Rookus R. Curry, 27. It said Watt is in serious to critical condition.
“Officers returned gunfire as Curry fled the area. After a short foot pursuit, the suspect was located and taken into custody. The Vernal City officer and suspect have been transported to Wasatch Front Hospitals. The officer is currently listed in stable condition.”
The earlier statement from the Uintah County Sheriff’s Office says the officer drove himself to a local hospital before being airlifted to the Wasatch Front hospital. It also says a Sheriff’s deputy sustained minor injuries, and was treated at a Vernal area hospital before being released.
Rookus’ condition was not released.
“As Sergeant Watt begins the journey to recovery, we understand that it will be a lengthy and challenging road ahead,” the Vernal City Police statement says.
“To support him and his family during this time, we are providing avenues for those who wish to contribute. You can donate directly to the family Venmo account (Julie Watt @Watt-1999), or you can make donations in person at the Vernal Police Department. Checks should be written to “Vernal Police Officers Association.” While medical costs will be covered by city insurance, your generosity will help alleviate the financial burdens the Watt family will face as Sergeant Watt focuses on healing.
“Once again, we thank you for your unwavering support and ask that you continue to keep Chad and his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
