Houston police officer shot in northeast Houston breaks his silence

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Like any young father, Houston police officer Jason Rhodes really treasures the time he spends with his wife and two-year-old son. Just a few days ago, he worried he might never see them again.

"They could have been left without a husband or a father to provide for them," said Rhodes.

Earlier this week, Rhodes was on regular patrol in northeast Houston when he noticed two men robbing a Dollar General Store. As Rhodes chased the suspects, one of them opened fire, hitting him in the arm.

"I didn't think I would get shot, but you always got to prepare for the worst," says the five-year veteran of HPD. "I was just thinking these guys need to get caught because they could really hurt someone."

Rhodes wife Yajaira, who is expecting the couple's second child in July, was relieved he wasn't seriously hurt.

"Happy he was OK," she said as she wiped away tears. "I knew it was in the arm."

The former Marine was treated and released from the hospital. Two suspects have been arrested. In addition, Police Chief Charles McClelland on Wednesday afternoon praised Rhodes for his bravery.

"Even after getting shot, he didn't just stop and give up, he continued to try to apprehend them," said the Chief. "There's not a lot of people willing to do that."

Rhodes says he was simply doing his job. His father is also an officer at HPD, and he's eager to get back to work.

"I think he really enjoys it, he likes it," said Rhodes' wife. "He likes helping people, doing what's right."