A Park Forest, Illinois police detective has died, nearly a decade after being shot multiple times in the line of duty.

Park Forest Police Chief Brian Rzyski said Officer Tim Jones died in his home, surrounded by family.

"I was speaking with the family earlier this morning, and we know that he's he's dancing, he's definitely dancing up in heaven and and he's certainly putting that smile to use," Rzyski said.

He said Jones made a deep and lasting impression on the department, and his presence will always be in it. 

"When you say a fighter, a warrior, grit, determination, resilience, I mean all of those words. I mean that's embodied him. That's who he is," the chief said. 

It was around 5:40 a.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2016, when Jones was shot while investigating a break-in at a vacant home and a stolen vehicle in the 300 block of Neola Street in the south Chicago suburb.

After learning a person was inside the building, police set up a perimeter around the home. As the suspect left, police say they tried to take him into custody, he took out a gun and started shooting at the officers.

Jones, 24, at the time, was shot once in the head and was rushed to the hospital. Police also returned fire and killed the shooter, identified as 21-year-old Thurman Reynolds.

The community rallied around Jones after the shooting. At the time of the shooting, Park Forest police were told Jones would not survive, but he did survive for nearly a decade.

In May 2017, 14 months after the shooting, Jones left a rehab hospital where he was being treated. He was dressed in full uniform, to a standing ovation from colleagues, friends, and family.

Jones received an honorary promotion to detective in 2021.

"I remember every time I would see Tim type in a report when he got out on his own, and anytime, just the interaction that I had with him, I would come back to the detective's office and I would go, I'm telling you what that Tim Jones is one hell of a person," Rzyski said. 

His desk and locker remain just as he left them inside the police statin.

"If all my police officers were like Tim Jones, I'm telling you, it would be just wonderful. I was lucky to have one Tim Jones," said Rzyski.

"With the strength and determination that defined him, he fought back. Day after day, year after year, he pushed through challenges most of us can't imagine," Park Forest police said in a statement. "For nearly 10 years, Tim showed us what courage, resilience, and heart truly look like."

On Wednesday, Jones' battle came to an end, Park Forest police said.

"And while our hearts are broken, we remain incredibly proud of the fight he gave," Park Forest police said. "Tim will always be an inspiration and a reminder of the power of strength, faith, and the unwavering support of family and loved ones."

Jones was the son of Country Club Hills Police Chief William Jones. A celebration of life is planned. Bunting and a flag at half-staff is on display at the Village Hall in Jones' honor.