PC Gareth Phillips, the brave West Midlands Police officer who was mowed down by a cowardly suspected car thief, remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The officer is currently in intensive care, having had several operations as a result of his injuries.
It’s alleged that Mubashar Hussain, 29 and of no fixed address, hijacked a police car in Moorcroft Road, Moseley, at around 4.45pm and reversed into PC Phillips, knocking him down, before driving over his body as he lay pinned under the vehicle.
PC Phillips had responded to reports that a Range Rover Sport had been stolen at around 4.30pm on Saturday 10th August.
The brave officer attempted to detain Hussain when he was attacked and sustained what are thought to be life-changing injuries.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said:
“We continue to be overwhelmed by the messages of support that have flooded in from across the country for PC Gareth Phillips, the traffic officer seriously injured when he was run over by a suspected car thief…
“PC Phillips remains seriously ill in hospital today, but has been told about the countless goodwill messages and is very appreciative.
“It’s a long road to recovery he will require further surgery, and he may be in hospital for several months”.
A JustGiving campaign has been set up by Gareth’s colleagues as they try to raise funds to help Gareth and his family through this difficult and distressing period as he recovers both mentally and physically from his ordeal.
Chief Inspector Rachel Joyce said:
“On Saturday 10th August Gareth attended an incident where it had been reported that a car had been stolen.
“During this incident, Gareth was knocked down and driven over while trying to arrest one of the suspected thieves.
“This caused Gareth to sustain very serious injuries.
“He is now in intensive care, having already had two emergency operations.
“He faces a very long road to recovery, which will include further operations and extensive rehabilitation.
“A Just Giving page has been set up by colleagues to raise money to support Gareth and his family through the difficult times that are to follow.
“The support that Gareth and his family have received from the public has been overwhelming, and they have taken great strength from this.
“Many thanks to everyone for your love and support”.
