Thurston County Sheriff injured in crash says he's ready to get back to work Jan. 1

Months after a motorcycle crash in Montana, Thurston County Sheriff John Snaza will return to work January 1, 2017, the sheriff announced Saturday in a video on Facebook.

“I should be back to work starting the 1st of the year. I will be looking forward to continuing serving the citizens of Thurston County for many years to come,” Snaza said.

In August, he was critically injured when he lost control of his Harley-Davidson on a rural highway in Montana. Snaza was not on duty at the time.

Snaza suffered a punctured lung, a lacerated kidney, a broken left arm and a damaged right hand. He underwent successful surgery to fuse a bone in his neck.

“I want to make sure that all of you know how much I truly appreciate all the blessings and prayers that you all have done for me. And thank you very much," Snaza said.

In September, Snaza was transferred to Harborview Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Center where he finished treatment.