On the eve of the eighth anniversary of a shooting that nearly claimed the life of Park Forest Police Officer Tim Jones, Village leaders donned special t-shirts and offered comments Monday night to recognize the man the community continues to affectionately call Tim Strong.
As part of his comments during the board meeting, Park Forest Mayor Joseph A. Woods read a prepared statement from his seat atop the dais of the Village Hall board room to express his thanks for Jones.
"As we wear blue to honor Tim Jones today, I am of the belief that superheroes are those who run to danger rather than run from it," Woods said. "All in the interests of protecting and serving this Village, the best interest of Park Forest, our residents.”
On March 19, 2016, Jones, a native of Tinley Park, was critically wounded after responding to a report of a break-in. Jones was struck three times, suffering injuries to his neck and jaw. Doctors gave Jones little chance of survival. As the days that followed turned to weeks, Jones’ condition gradually improved. The rookie officer went on to mount a comeback, beating the odds he was given. In the process, Jones acquired the moniker Tim Strong.
Eight years later, members of the Park Forest community continue to sport Tim Strong t-shirts, offer well wishes on social media using the Tim Strong hashtag, and place signs in Village parkways to remember the bravery and heroism of Tim Jones.
Jones, now 32, was 24 at the time of the shooting and had been with the department close to a year. Since the incident, he has undergone multiple surgeries and rehabilitations. He continues on his road to recovery with the support of his family, friends, and the community who has never forgotten him.
“Tim Jones, you are indeed a superhero,” said Woods. I can only trust and believe that we as a Village can glean from your Tim Strong courage as we face our challenges and our triumphs, collectively as well as individually. Thank you and your family for your service."
Jones’ locker remains at the Park Forest Police Department where he now is an honorary detective. A honorary Tim Jones street sign continues to hang from a light pole on Indianwood Boulevard, just steps from where a dozen Park Forest police vehicles park – one bearing the name Tim Strong 204 printed in large blue print across its back doors.
A Facebook page created to provide updates and support for Jones posted its first activity in nearly eight months this morning when a short reminder of the courage of Tim Jones was broadcast for all to remember.
“Eight years,” the post read, followed by the hashtag TimStrong.