Red Sox legend David Ortiz is recovering after being shot in his native Dominican Republic last night. In what is being is being called a robbery attempt, Ortiz was shot in the lower back while taking pictures with fans. A security camera captured the shooting on video, which looks more like an assassination attempt than a robbery. The shooting took place at the Dial Bar in Santo Domingo.
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According to ESPN, Ortiz is in stable condition after undergoing multiple surgeries. The 10-time All-Star had to have parts of his intestines and colon removed as well as his gallbladder. There was also damage done to his liver. Ortiz’s father said his son is “fine” after the surgeries and stated that the bullet missed any vital organs.
Other videos circulating show the shooter being beaten. Eddy Feliz Garcia – the alleged gunman – can be seen covering his face as a crowd kicks and stomps on him.
An unconfirmed report alleges that Garcia was aiming for Dominican rapper “PapaSecreto”.
Thoughts and prayers for David Ortiz have poured in from across the baseball and larger sports world. Ortiz – 43 – is a three-time World Series champion, 10-time All Star and a legend both in Boston and the Dominican Republic.
The shooting has left many shaken up and millions are praying for a quick and complete recovery.