Topeka Rescue Mission staff member injured in attack exits hospital

TOPEKA (KSNT) - A Topeka Rescue Mission (TRM) staff member who was severely injured earlier this month is out of the hospital this week.

Kim Turley with the TRM said in a press release the staff member is on the road to recovery after being released from the hospital. The staff member is now at a rehabilitation facility.

Turley said there have been encouraging signs of progress in the staff member's ongoing recovery journey. The organization continues to emphasize the "power of prayer" in helping the staff member heal.

“There are no adequate words to express the deep gratitude we have for each of those in our community who reached out to offer support and prayers during this situation," said TRM CEO La Manda Cunningham. "Each of our staff members is precious to us, not just as employees but as loved children of God’s family. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our staff and will continue working closely with authorities to understand this event. At the same time, we rejoice in the progress we have witnessed in the healing process of our injured teammate and continue to support all of our staff as we move forward."

Police were called just before 11 p.m. on Friday, April 4 to the 600 block of North Kansas Avenue. Officers arriving at the scene found a 52-year-old man suffering from life-threatening injuries including “blunt force trauma”. The man was hospitalized with injuries including broken bones, a severe cut and a possible internal injury in the aftermath of the incident, according to a police report obtained by 27 News.

The Topeka Police Department (TPD) arrested Xavian M. Locke, 25, of Topeka in connection to the incident. The Shawnee County District Attorney later charged him with attempted murder in the first degree, aggravated robbery and other counts.

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