11/06/2025
Apollo Beach Community Comes Together to Support Officer Paralyzed in Riverview Shooting
Apollo Beach community members have once again demonstrated their compassion and generosity—this time rallying to support ATF Officer , who was paralyzed during last winter’s Riverview bowling alley shooting.
The officer sustained an incomplete spinal cord injury, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down after being shot while on a family outing. Following his initial recovery, Apollo Beach Therapy Center reached out to him and his wife to introduce aquatic therapy as part of his ongoing rehabilitation.
Aquatic therapy provides a safe, supportive environment that reduces the effects of gravity and allows clients to exercise more freely. As an avid scuba diver and lifelong waterman—returning to the water has been transformative. Through hard work and consistency, he has achieved remarkable milestones: swimming the backstroke, performing a modified breaststroke, rolling independently, and even begun walking in the pool.
“Neuroplasticity is the brain and spinal cord’s incredible ability to form new pathways after injury,” explains Dr. Lovely, OTD of Apollo Beach Therapy Center. “The Officer’s progress is a testament to the power of movement, persistence, and positive mindset.”
Recently, a group of local business owners and community members joined forces to expand accessibility at the facility by donating a state-of-the-art aquatic lift. This addition will allow anyone with mobility challenges to safely enter and exit the pool for therapy, exercise, and family recreation.
Special thanks to Trey Kessler (Grain and Berry), Bill Williams (Apollo Medical Services), Sean Rice (The Salty Shamrock), Vic Granowicz (Circles Waterfront Restaurant), Joey Sorrells (South Shore Pools), Tyler Sultenfuss (Life Academy Inc.), and Gorman Company for making this possible. Their generosity ensures that every individual—regardless of physical ability—has access to the healing power of water.