DeSoto County deputy hit by suspected drunk driver speaks on his recovery

“It’s been a life-changing experience”

DeSoto County Deputy Austin Eldridge was helping to change a motorist’s flat tire on I-269 just east of the Laughter Road exit the night of February 5 when he was hit by a car.

 Eldridge suffered serious injuries and was taken to Regional One Hospital in Memphis. He eventually had a portion of his left leg amputated. Stevenson Enterprises held two benefit golf charity tournaments on March 18th and April 1, 2021 to directly benefit Officer Austin Eldridge. On April 8, 2021 a check for $22,850 was presented to the family to help offset medical expenses.

Eldridge spoke out for the first time in early June after being hit with a car by a suspected drunk driver earlier this year. Deputy Austin Eldridge calls the road to recovery difficult, but he said he is grateful to have the support of his family and community.
“All my injuries combined I had a left leg amputated above the knee, right leg severely injured,” shared deputy Austin Eldridge.

Eldridge was helping to change a driver’s flat tire in February when he was hit by a car. Memphian Katherine Harris is charged with a DUI after investigators said she ran into Eldridge. The deputy said recovery these past months has been difficult.

His motivation first is his family, especially with a little one on the way.

“This young lady right here you know I’ve got here and I’ve got a kid on the way and I want to be back for them,” said the deputy. “I’m going to try to take care of my son and my wife and that’s my first motivation to get back.”

Eldridge also expressed that he’s incredibly thankful for the community support his family received.

“I love this job, I love this department,” said Eldridge. “I was doing what I love when I got hurt and I want to get back to doing it.”