BALTIMORE — John Trujillo, a 66-year-old veterinarian, is still recovering after he was shot by his brother, who then barricaded himself inside the Light Street Animal Hospital.
The beloved animal doctor known as "Doctor T" started Light Street Animal Hospital in 2001.
Now, a community is stepping up to help Dr. Trujillo.
Laura Wiebking, a friend of the doctor, started a GoFundMe account to raise money for the medical bills, and it nearly reached its initial goal of $5,000 within the first 48 hours.
“He’s already had one surgery. There’s another surgery pending, but from what I understand, his spirits are high and he’s working his way through it, and I think it’s going to be a long road, but knowing John and his determination, he will come out of this in a bright spot,” said Wiebking.
Police said the popular veterinarian suffered a gunshot wound to his leg, which did so much damage, it remains uncertain whether doctors will be able to save the limb.
His brother, who has not been identified, surrendered to police. He has not yet been charged, but was taken for a mental evaluation.
“It would be difficult for John," Wiebking said. "There’s a lot of steps in the building. He is always running from here, there to everywhere, because he’s always so busy and not being mobile or having difficulty being mobile would definitely affect him. So, yes, we would like to do anything we could give him to help with his mobility is definitely coming out of the funds from this GoFundMe campaign.”
MORE: Alleged shooter from animal hospital barricade to undergo mental evaluation
Wiebking said Dr. Trujullo has become a fixture in the community for providing care and compassion to pets and their owners alike.
“He just exudes kindness, and everyone in 2020 got a dog, because that was the thing to do, because everyone was staying home, and now everybody brings their dogs or cats or their hamsters or whatever it is to John, because he is the best," Wiebking said. "A wonderful human being and a wonderful vet.”
To help the family, visit the GoFundMe site.
