Wounded Gloucester Township Police Sergeant Released From Hospit

Amid a roar of motorcycles and sirens, Gloucester Township police Sergeant James Garber returned home Sunday.  The 13 year veteran left Cooper University hospital, two days after he was wounded in a shooting inside the police station.  Neighbors, fellow officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians lined the streets outside Garber's home.  After stepping out of a police SUV, Garber saluted his fellow officers and greeted the crowd.  "I appreciate it, thank you very much.  I don't know what else to say" said Garber.  The crowd erupted into cheers and cries of thanks for his heroic actions.

Garber underwent surgery after suffering a gunshot wound to the abdomen.  Police say he, along with fellow Sergeant Kevin Thyne, and Officer Ruth Burns were all wounded by former corrections employee Eddie Jones III.  Jones had been arrested for allegedly stalking a former girlfriend.  While inside the police station, Jones attacked Officer Burns and got a hold of her gun.  Investigators say he shot the three before officers returned fire, killing him. 

Thyne, wearing a bandage on his chin from a graze wound suffered in the shootout, was there as Sergeant Garber arrived home. Gloucester Township Police Chief Harry Earle said "we are so fortunate that all three officers have returned home to their families.  A special day as we approach this New Year." Earle also said he is no rush to get Sergeant Gerber and the other officers back to work. "What's important is that he gets his medical care and that he's comfortable returning to work and then he'll join us again" said Earle.