Henry County police officer show 'signs of improvement'

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The Henry County police officer shot in the line of duty last Thursday night is showing signs of improvement, according to an update given by the department Monday afternoon.

Officer Michael Smith was trying to speak to 53-year-old Dimaggio McNelly who investigators said was causing a disturbance inside a dental office near McDonough. Instead, McKelly became combative, getting into an altercation with Officer Smith, according to police.

RELATED: Community rallies for Henry County officer in critical condition

During the scuffle, one shot was fired from Smith’s gun, police said. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said the bullet struck Smith in the face and ended up killing McNelly.

Smith has been in Grady Memorial Hospital since the shooting in critical condition, but as of Monday afternoon, the department said he was stable and showing clear signs of improvement. They are asking for continued prayers for him and his family.

Anyone who would like to help Smith and his family financially can do so by dropping off monetary donations at any Southern Credit Union or either of the Henry County Police precincts. There is also a GoFundMe account for Smith at gofundme.com/support-officer-smith-fund.

RELATED: Henry County police officer remains in critical condition after shooting