TPD Officer Shot In The Line Of Duty Becomes Tulsa's Hope After Miraculous Recovery

Sometimes something good comes out of tragedy and that's the case with Tulsa Police Officer Aurash Zarkeshan.

After being shot in the head during a traffic stop, his recovery has been nothing short of remarkable.

The first good news report on Officer Zarkeshan surfaced just three days after he was rushed into emergency surgery.

He was improving hour by hour, and even able to move his fingers and toes; and the swelling around his brain was diminishing.

The next day, a prayer vigil was held, and the good news continued on July 7th, when Officer Zarkeshan's breathing tube was removed and he could communicate with his family.

A couple of weeks later, citizens lined up to give donations to the families of Zarkeshan and Sergeant Craig Johnson.

After that, the Tulsa Police Department posted a thank you video with a surprise appearance at the end.

"Thank you Tulsa for your continued love and support," said Officer Zarkeshan.

Less than a month later on August 20th, we got to see video of Officer Zarkeshan in a rehabilitation facility out of state. He was able to walk and stand and was motivated by all the support back home.

"Thank you for everything you've done for me and my family," Officer Zarkeshan said.

Then, on September 18th--new inspiration--Officer Zarkeshan taking the stairs, riding an exercise bike, throwing a few punches, even hiking outdoors, seeming to defy the odds as he continued to take great leaps forward.

Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin flew out to surprise his young officer 10 days later, and we got to see his ever improving skills, even laughing at the special gift he received from his boss.

"So I made a trip from Tulsa all the way out here to see Aurash, and I thought I'd bring him something he left while he was in Tulsa (laughing)," said Chief Franklin.

Then, the announcement the community had been waiting to hear: Officer Zarkeshan was coming home to Tulsa, to the people he'd protected and served, who had prayed for him and cheered for him.

"I am so happy to be home; I am so sick and tired of being in the hospital. I hope to never be in one again, unless it is for good reason," Officer Zarkeshan said.

He was greeted by family and friends, hugging, taking pictures and even hearing a proclamation about all he'd endured in the previous three months.

He was told how his bravery and positive outlook had been an inspiration to the city, declaring him Tulsa's Hope for his service, courage and valor under fire.

That day, October 15th would be known as Officer Aurash Zarkeshan day.

He is now back on the job, on light duty, but once again a proud police officer.

He recently thanked the medical professionals who fought so hard to save his life, a life clearly not finished, with more great accomplishments ahead.