Kernersville Police Officer Seriously Injured During Shooting

Kernersville is still reeling after one of its police officers was seriously injured during a shooting last weekend. On February 21, Officer Sean Houle was shot multiple times during an early morning struggle at an apartment complex near Main Street, WFMY reports. The suspect, Quinton Blocker, reportedly took Houle's firearm and shot him in the face, arm, and hand. Blocker was ultimately arrested on multiple charges, include attempted first-degree murder, and Houle has been recovering at a local hospital.

According to the Kernersville Police Department, Officer Houle's condition has improved since the shooting but he remains in "critical but stable condition," WFMY reports.

Since the shooting, the Kernersville community has banded together to raise support and funds for Houle and his family. Several fundraisers have been set up to help Houle, including Pawlee's Doggie Bakery and Natural Pet Market, which will donate 100% of the money made from their Kernersville Houle support doggie treats. A Workout for Houle fundraiser at Fitness One Training will be held Saturday (March 6) at 7:30 and 9:15 for $20, with all proceeds going toward the Houle family.

Between March 2 and March 10, Cherry Orchard Foods will donate 20% of retail sales to the Houle family. Similarly, Ledo Pizza Kernersville will donate 20% of a customer's proceeds until March 4 if they show a flyer, enter a code online, or simply mention the fundraiser. Updates on fundraisers and other opportunities to help the Houle family can be found at the "Houle Strong" Facebook page.

If you would like to donate funds to the family, this is the only verified GoFundMe page, according to the news outlet. As of Tuesday, nearly $34,000 has been raised to support Houle and help pay medical expenses. Additionally, check donations can be made in the name of Ellie Houle and delivered to the Kernersville Police Department.

If you don't have funds to donate but still want to help, two blood drives in honor of Houle will be held in the coming weeks: 2:30-7 p.m. March 18 at Fountain of Youth Church; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24, at Coldwell Banker | Advantage.

Following widespread support of Houle and his recovery, his family released a statement last week.

"The family would like to personally thank Kernsersville PD, NC Highway Patrol, Stokes County Sheriff's Department and the brothers in blue here and abroad for all of the infinite support shown to the entire family," the statement read. "To the first responders who so swiftly cared for Sean and the Wake Forest Baptist trauma team, we couldn't be more grateful. Also thanks to the local churches, friends, and the entire community. Prayers have been answered and God is certainly in this and we have faith knowing He is the ultimate healer."

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