Hundreds Show Support For Injured Eastpointe Police Officer

EASTPOINTE (WWJ) - A Prayer vigil was held Friday night for the Eastpointe Police officer who was critically injured this week when he was hit by an alleged drunk driver while he was arresting a drug suspect on Gratiot.  

A few hundred people showed up behind the Eastpointe Police Department last night to pray for Eastpointe Police Officer Randy Diegel.

His wife, Renee, recalls the night it happened like it was yesterday.

"I got the, the one thing that every police officer's spouse fears. That's the knock on the door. As I have sat by my husband's bedside, I have witnessed the support, the love and most of all your prayers," Renee said.

Although the officer sustained serious head injuries, his wife said he's improving.

"Today I'm encouraged because we are given the gift of the long journey of recovery.  This is a miracle and we need your continued support and prayers," Renee said.

The Eastpointe Police Department has set up a fund for Diegel's family and they are wearing his badge number on their hearts under their badges until he recovers.

Financial donations may be made via check written to EDPOA FBO Officer Diegel and addressed to EDPOA, Eastpoint Police Department, 16083 E. Nine Mile Road, Eastpointe, MI 48021. All proceeds will go to Diegel and his family, which includes his wife and three young children.

A 26-year-old Genesee County man is in jail and charged in the incident.