Benefit softball tournament helping raise money for injured deputy

A wounded Fayette County deputy is recovering at home after an intense standoff in La Grange.

Deputy Calvin "CJ" Lehmann was shot in the face while attempting to serve a warrant on Nov. 1 to a registered sex offender when the man barricaded himself in a motel. Lehmann offered to assist and was shot in the face. The sheriff's office says Lehmann lost one of his eyes and doctors are fighting to save the other.

To help Lehmann, the Fayette County community and athletes from all over Central Texas came together to raise money for his recovery with a benefit softball tournament. The Tri-County Adult's Sports Association weekend tournament meant more than a chance to steal bases or hit a homerun it was an opportunity to give back to Lehmann.

Tri-County Adult's Sports Association Secretary Tanya Ellis said Saturday (11/10) Lehmann was released from the hospital and his first stop was the Fayette County Fairgrounds to say thank to everyone who has shown him support through his long road to recovery.

"Whenever something tragic happens in this community we always try to do our best and step out to help out those in need and with him serving our community and doing everything he has for us it was time for us to repay and help him,” Ellis said. "Our thoughts and our continued prayers are for his continued healing and we thank him so much for everything that he does for us."

The association’s goal is to raise at least $3,000 dollars this weekend.

For more information about how you can help there's a Facebook page with a list of events and fundraisers to aid in Lehmann’s recovery efforts.