Atlantic City cop who was shot in the head could be released from hospital this week

ATLANTIC CITY — A city police officer who was shot in the line of duty over Labor Day weekend continues to improve and could be released from the hospital as soon as Thursday.

According to a brief statement released Wednesday afternoon by the Atlantic City Police Department, Officer Josh Vadell's condition has been upgraded and is expected to be released this week from AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center and transferred to a rehab center.

"Officer Vadell's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at the medical center for the amazing treatment and care that they have provided to Officer Vadell. They also wish to thank everyone for their continued support," the department's statement Wednesday said.

Officer Vadell was shot after responding to a robbery call outside of Caesars' parking garage during the early morning hours of Sept. 3. Vadell's partner  shot and killed a suspect during the shoot-out. Two other people were later arrested in connection to the incident. Since the shooting, more than $103,000 has been raised for Officer Vadell's family.