Fundraiser held for Police Bradley Tyler Bailey after injured, partner Marlene Rittmanic killed in hotel shooting

His family said he was removed from the ICU on Saturday and is now in stable condition, but the road to recovery continues.

Officer Bailey, and his partner, Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic, both were shot on December 28 when they responded to a noise complaint at a motel downstairs.

RELATED: Police Bradley Sgt. Marlene Rittmanic killed in hotel shooting, partner injured

Rittmanic died of her wounds. Bailey was seriously injured and is recovering at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.

Sgt. Rittmanic’s Funeral was held last week.

“We’ve got to keep our Tyler,” said Kathleen Bailey-Patterson, Bailey’s aunt. They’ve lost Marlene, so happy for them. And, I hope Marlene is looking at everyone here and smiling. Kathleen Bailey-Patterson, Bailey’s aunt said.

On Sunday, Bailey’s community held a fundraiser to help his family with growing expenses. Organizers said they had raised more than $45,000 within the first hour.

“I think we all hoped it would turn out this way, but I don’t think we ever expected this,” said Lauren Duffield, co-organizer of the fund.

They held an event at a Bourbonnais to show their support for the officer on duty.

“Northfield Square Mall said there was no dollar. They donated it,” said co-organizer Melissa Curtis. “Bo Jackson donated an autographed jersey and an autographed soccer ball.”

RELATED: Police officer Bradley Tyler Bailey leaves ICU 23 days after being shot, family says

While the two suspects were eventually caught, Bailey remained in the intensive care unit, fighting for his life.

“I know what that call is like and I know what you need after that call. So that’s why I’m here,” said Melany Jacobson, a police widow and co-organiser. .

Organizers said it was the least they could do for a man who put his life on the line to keep his community protected.

“Tyler hears the prayers. He hears all of those prayers and the prayers are with him,” said Lisa Godin, who is also Bailey’s aunt.

According to the family, Bailey was making small improvements every day. Earlier this week, after 23 days in the ICU, he was transferred from the intensive care unit to the standard care hospital.

“Tyler will live to tell his story and give back to all that he received tonight,” Bailey-Patterson added.