In a harrowing incident in Deer Park, a 16-year-old boy named William Hammond found himself face to face with death as he took a bullet to the chest while defending his stepmother during a carjacking. This terrifying ordeal unfolded just a week ago, but William’s remarkable recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. In an exclusive interview with ABC13, he recounts the details of that fateful day and shares his gratitude for his second chance at life.
The incident occurred as William and his stepmother, Charlotte Tucker, were leaving work at I Heart Mac on Spencer Highway in Deer Park. As they were getting into their car, an armed robber approached them, threatening their safety. Without hesitation, William stepped in to protect his stepmother, knowing the potential danger involved. He recalls, “I was scared, but I knew what could have happened to my stepmom, and I didn’t care.”
In a moment of sheer terror, the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Matthew Hubbard, pulled out a gun and shot William in the chest before stealing their vehicle. The bullet narrowly missed his heart, passing between his fifth and sixth rib and causing a fracture. William vividly remembers the shock and horror of seeing himself covered in blood. “I pulled up my shirt, and I was completely covered head to toe with blood that was gushing,” he recalls.
Despite the severity of his injuries, William’s indomitable spirit and unwavering faith in God have propelled him towards a speedy recovery. Just three days after being shot, he was up and walking again, determined to leave the hospital and resume his normal life. This incredible resilience has not gone unnoticed, and William is being hailed as a hero by his family and the entire community.
Meanwhile, the carjacking suspect, Matthew Hubbard, is facing multiple charges for his actions. He has been accused of several aggravated assaults and robberies with a deadly weapon, highlighting the extent of his criminal activities. During a court hearing, it was revealed that William was shot while trying to protect his mother, leading the court to set Hubbard’s bond at $1 million.
Despite the trauma he endured, William harbors no anger towards Hubbard. Instead, he hopes that a higher power can intervene and guide the suspect towards a better path. This forgiveness and compassion speak volumes about William’s character and his ability to see beyond the immediate pain and suffering.
As the community rallies around William, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the ripple effect of heroism. In risking his own life to protect his stepmother, he inspired others to step up and take action. A bystander at the scene also played a crucial role in saving William’s life, further showcasing the power of collective bravery.
The incredible journey of William Hammond is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. His story serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting those we care about. As William continues to heal and move forward, he offers a profound lesson in forgiveness and the power of second chances.
