DALLAS — Sunday, one week after a fire truck fell from the I-345 expressway, a longtime lieutenant was released from the hospital following days in the ICU.
Lieutenant John Hampton was discharged from Baylor Scott and White, surrounded by his family, friends, and DFR brothers and sisters.
"Truly blessed to have him with us," Jeff Wallis, Executive Deputy Chief of Administration for the Dallas Police Department told WFAA.
Lieutenant Hampton was seen hugging and fist-bumping fellow firefighters as he was wheeled out of the hospital wearing a neck brace.
"Pretty emotional, pretty emotional for everyone," Wallis said. "Because each person knows him in their own aspect. Tremendous character, tremendous guy, tremendous fireman."
Deputy Chief Wallis said lining the hospital exit with firefighters and engines is meant to send a simple message.
"That he’s loved. That we’re here to support him, and we’re waiting really for him to show back up with arms open."
Hampton was seen leaving the hospital with his thumb up as he waved goodbye to his fellow firefighters.