Deputy shot continues to recover

FT. WALTON BEACH, Fla. (WALA) - A chaotic gunfight broke the silence in the Camille Gardens area of Milton Friday night. Now, Okaloosa Sheriff’s Deputy Steven Hough is fighting to get well.

Authorities said Hough was shot once in the face and twice in the leg by the suspect, David Christopher Lewis.

Keith Balsley lives next to Hough’s parents in Fort Walton Beach. He said Hough just married and has a new baby.

“It’s a terrible thing. He could have left that child fatherless without a good education or anything. It’s just awful," said Balsley.

Hough was part of the U. S. Marshal’s Task Force, which was assigned to serve Lewis a warrant.

Authorities said when they showed up, Lewis ran out, firing two handguns and striking Hough multiple times. They fired back on Lewis, seriously wounding him.

Deputy Hough and Lewis are being treated at Sacred Heart Hospital.

Neighbors tell FOX10 that people from around the area have been bringing gifts to the family, wishing the best for Hough.

“The man was only trying to do his job. Hopefully he gets well and gets back on his feet,” Balsley said. “He’s a very determined person, and he’ll stay with the sheriff’s department, I’m sure."

Deputy Hough is listed in serious condition.

David Lewis is in critical condition.

Authorities say if he survives, Lewis could be facing attempted murder and aggravated assault charges.

The Okaloosa Law Enforcement Benevolent Association (OLEBA) was established in 2008, to assist local Law Enforcement Officers and their families, in the unfortunate event that they have become seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.

Recently, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Hough was seriously injured in the line of duty, by a violent criminal. Hough was shot three times by the suspect, once in the face, and twice in the leg, as he was attempting to arrest the suspect on outstanding warrants.

Deputy Hough will require multiple surgeries, which will include reconstructive surgery. His recovery at a Pensacola hospital is expected to take several months. OLEBA has assisted Deputy Hough’s family with covering the cost of lodging and food, so they can be near the hospital as he recovers.

Anyone that is interested in assisting Deputy Hough can make a financial contribution or donation to OLEBA at any Beach Community Bank. All donations will assist local Law Enforcement Officers and their families in a time of need.