Arlington firefighter shot on welfare call discharged from hospital, continuing recovery at home

An Arlington firefighter who was shot in the chest while conducting a welfare check last week has been discharged from the hospital and is now recovering at home, as stated by the Arlington Professional Fire Fighters Association.

Brady Weaver, a six-year veteran firefighter, was among the first responders called to an apartment on the 400 block of Bardin Greene Drive on March 22 around 12:43 a.m. in response to a 911 call reporting sounds of children crying in a neighboring apartment and pleading with their mother to wake up.

After knocking on the door for five minutes and identifying themselves 17 times, firefighters began using a tool to open the door. At that moment, someone inside the apartment fired a gun through the door, hitting Weaver, who was standing nearby. Despite being struck, Weaver managed to retreat on his own before being transported to a nearby hospital.

The occupant of the apartment was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after admitting to detectives that he mistook the sound of first responders for an attempted break-in, fired his gun, and called 911. Both he and his girlfriend claimed they had been sleeping and did not require medical attention.

In a statement released on Friday, the Arlington Professional Fire Fighters Association expressed gratitude for Weaver’s recovery and thanked the community for its support during the ordeal. They highlighted the outpouring of kindness, including visits from legislative partners, financial gifts, and accommodations provided by the Loews Hotel for Weaver’s family. The association also emphasized their commitment to supporting Weaver and his family during his recovery, with tax-deductible contributions being accepted through their 501c3 charity. Contributions can be made via Zelle or by check to the provided address.