Authorities identify Mariposa County Deputy shot on Thursday

MODESTO, Calif (KFSN) -- The Mariposa County Sheriff's Office has released the name of a deputy who was shot in the line of duty on Thursday.

The deputy, Rudy Mirelez, is a ten year veteran of the department. He was still listed in critical condition at a Modesto Hospital on Sunday, but has been able to respond to voice commands and make eye contact with visitors.

Mirelez was shot in the face and torso after a pursuit that ended on Highway 49 near the fairgrounds.

The suspect was also shot, but is now in jail. He's been identified as Brian Ballasch. Authorities say he is a Marine Corps veteran who suffers from PTSD.

The deputy's family released a statement today saying in part, "The outpouring of community support for Rudy has been inspiring and amazing. Rudy's recovery is our biggest concern, and we would like to ask for your continued thoughts and prayers."