Injured deputy throws out first pitch

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - He survived unscathed after perilous tours of duty as a combat pilot. But he lost his legs while chasing a suspect last month. Wednesday night, Niagara County Sheriff's Deputy Allen Gerhardt threw out the first pitch at Coca-Cola Field.

They rescued him on the night of that terrible accident, and Niagara County Sheriff's Deputies Shawn Grapes and John Andres were beside Allen Gerhardt again Wednesday night, as he threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Bisons game.

Dep. Gerhardt said, "They definitely had the hardest part. I wouldn't want to have done what they did. Fortunately, I don't remember it. But they have to, they will. And I just -- I can't say thanks enough."

Deputy Gerhardt is thankful just to be alive, and says he doesn't waste a moment feeling bitter or sorry for himself. It hasn't even been two months since the crash in which Gerhardt lost both his legs, but he's already thinking about prosthetics, going back to work and getting back to his fitness routine.

"The wounds have to heal before I can do anything. So it's just a matter of waiting, just a matter of waiting. Before you know it, I'll be running. I used to run before this, and I'll be running again," said Dep. Gerhardt.

Over a hundred people turned out at the ballpark for Wednesday night's fundraiser for Gerhardt. Some knew him personally, others were just there to show their support.

Erie County Sheriff's Dep. Mike Okal said, "I worked with him for several years at the Parks Police. He's a great guy. And I'm hoping everybody comes out here and supports him. My partner and I are here to show that support."

Ricky Ostrom said, "The sheriffs are always there when we need them, and it's our turn to be there for him. He needs our help."

Judy Clare added, "We should always support our policemen. They're out there every day helping us, taking care of us. We have another son who's a policeman in Florida. We would just support them, no matter where they are."

There was a moment, during the pre-game festivities, when Gerhardt looked around at the crowd, then turned to News 4's Rachel Kingston and said, "I never knew that so many people would care." He called the support he's received "overwhelming."