Bartender Faces 3rd Surgery After Shooting In Stratford

STRATFORD, CT — The Stratford bartender who was shot during a robbery Tuesday night is set to undergo a third surgery this week, according to an update on a GoFundMe page created to help the family pay for medical expenses. The bartender, identified as Regi Woodard on the page, was shot in the abdomen after complying with a gunman’s demands to hand over money during a robbery at BAR in the Stratford Center at about 7 p.m. on Nov. 14.

The suspect fled the scene after the shooting. A “person of interest” was apprehended in Bridgeport on Thursday morning after exchanging gunfire with Bridgeport Police following the robbery of a shoe store in the city. The Connecticut Post reported on Thursday that the suspect could be connected to the shooting in Stratford.

Petra Peniastek created the GoFundMe page to support Woodard, who she says is an “incredible human being- great friend and a kind soul.”

“Medical bills will be extensive and we have to help his family deal with them,” Peniastek wrote on the page. “The donations would help him cover whatever expenses he has to deal with down the road- medical, therapy, living expenses while recovering and etc. He’s a well-respected man and an amazing friend!”

In a Friday afternoon update from Woodard’s brother, Peniastek wrote, “Today is an emotional day. Regi has made great progress. His love and will for life has been strengthened by the love and support he is getting from so many friends and supporters. He is moved beyond words. Regi is going in for a 3rd surgery this week. It is testing us all. We know the love we all have for him heals his body and strengthens his spirit. We ask for all of your love and prayers today, please. If you would like to take a moment and put Regi in your heart, we will be forever grateful. We are ALL in this together. Thank you!!”

More than $10,000 has been raised by nearly 200 people in the first two days of the GoFundMe campaign. Visit the GoFundMe page here.

Photo via GoFundMe