Maryland teen recovering after jumping in front of gunfire to save a complete stranger

URBANA, Md. — 30 surgeries and 2 months later, 16-year-old Chase Lancaster is slowly getting better.

His father, Alex Lancaster, told WUSA9 Chase jumped in front of gunfire, shielding a complete stranger and saving her life.

The heroic act nearly cost him his life. The bullet destroyed his kidney and damaged his liver. Chase has been in the hospital ever since. 

Nearly two months later,  Chase Lancaster has been showing signs of progress. His father said he is now breathing mostly on his own with minimal support from the ventilator, and his dialysis has been reduced as his remaining kidney begins to function again

"He is now able to swallow food, just today! His one kidney has begun to wake up, which is now producing, and they have him on spot dialysis 3 times a week.” Alex Lancaster said. 

Since the shooting, the community has rallied around the family, organizing local fundraising events, setting up a GoFundMe and now, selling merchandise. T-shirts and sweat-pants that say, 'Let your faith be bigger than your fear.'

A message near and dear to Chase, whose dream is to play college football. A message that now serves as a beacon of hope for his family.

"That is Chase’s tattoo, he got that on his arm. When he was playing football. It's to always look at that and remind himself he has the ability to do whatever he wants and not give into fear.” Alex Lancaster said. 

It's still unclear how much longer before Chase can go home. His internal organs have sustained severe damage, and he will require ongoing care, rehabilitation, therapy, counseling, and further surgeries. Nonetheless, his family is hopeful and grateful for the community's support. 

"He's sill in the ICU. He has a long journey ahead. The outlook, still have no idea when his body can respond. It’s up to Chase now that the doctors have done all they can.” Alex Lancaster said. 

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office told WUSA9, they believe Chase was not the intended target of the shooting.

Law enforcement have not located the shooter.