Wife Of Dewey County Sheriff, Shot By Michael Vance, Speaks Out

News 9 spoke to the Dewey County Sheriff's wife Wednesday night for the first time and she says the only way to explain what happened Sunday night is that “God was with her husband” and that is why he is still alive.

"I haven't had time to sit and think about it and whenever I do I just have complete break downs," said Clay Sander's wife, Callee. "I just thank God for the training that they have and for his quick thinking."

Sander called Callee after he was shot Sunday night to say he was hurt, but OK. Sander is still in the hospital in Elk City and his arm injuries are extensive.

Sander pulled over the driver of a flatbed truck Sunday night because of a sparking chain dragging behind it. He did not realize the driver was fugitive murder suspect Michael Vance.

Vance hit Sander twice with an AK-47, then drove off and that is how OHP troopers were able to track Vance down moments later. Vance was killed in a gun battle with troopers.

Special Coverage: Manhunt For Michael Vance.

"I really feel like my husband, pulling him over, saved a lot of lives," Callee said.

The bullets did a lot of damage to Sander's muscle and tissue. He tore his deltoid muscle in two, fractured a bone and had to have other muscle and tissue portions removed due to the damage.

Callee tells News 9 her husband is in good spirits, he is leaning on his faith and enjoying visits from colleagues. His pain is what's keeping him hospitalized and once they reduce his pain, he will go home.

"I wish that this hadn't have happened of course, but I'll take this over the alternative any day," Callee said.

This is actually the second time Sander has been shot in the line of duty. After this latest shooting, they talked about whether he should switch careers. Sander told his wife he loves what he does and law enforcement is where he belongs.

The Sanders want to thank the public for all the prayers and support they have received.