‘The perfect, heavenly gift.’ Widow of slain SC deputy gives birth to his daughter
When Spartanburg County Deputy Austin Derek Aldridge was shot and killed in the line of duty last June, he had just learned his wife was pregnant with their first baby.
The family of his widow, Jessica Aldridge, announced Tuesday on Facebook that the baby had been born. Her name is Claire Austin Aldridge, “so precious and the perfect, heavenly gift.”
The family said, “She is the answer to our many prayers. While we experience a roller coaster of emotions, we are so thankful for this sweet miracle.”
Aldridge was shot while standing on the porch of a Spartanburg County home after a woman reported she had been in an altercation with her husband. Aldridge was shot as soon as someone answered the door.
The suspect took the deputy’s gun, car keys and taser and fled to nearby woods.
Other officers chased him, Sheriff Chuck Wright said at the time. He acted like he was going to surrender, but fled again. Officers fired, striking him twice, then caused him to wreck his vehicle. He ran into the woods and was found lying on the ground, gun beside him, the sheriff said.
Duane Leslie Heard, 63, was charged with murder. He died in the York County Detention Center last October after a long recovery from gunshot wounds.
Jessica Aldridge’s family said on Facebook that the baby was a perfect mix of her parents.
“She even has his little chin. Austin would be so proud of her! Jessica is already a wonderful mother. She has shown great strength and is trusting the Lord day by day. With Him, we have hope and the promise of a bright future.”
They said Mrs. Aldridge has been overwhelmed with support from the community, including donations, gifts and calls.
“We are humbled by the kindness of others,” the post said.
They also said, “Life is very different and we are forging a new normal. There are still many hard moments. Sweet Claire has brought new joy and reasons to smile. We are blessed even in the storm. We must find a way to focus on the good and continue life’s journey.”