Officer Matt Cooper transferred to Atlanta's Shepherd Center

ATLANTA - FOX 5 News has learned Covington Police Officer Matt Cooper has been transferred to Atlanta's Shepherd Center for rehabilitation.  

According to Shepherd Center, Officer Cooper was transferred from Grady Memorial Hospital Thursday morning. After an initial evaluation, he'll be transferred to the center's brain injury rehab program. 

RELATED: How to help Covington Police Officer Cooper

Cooper was shot in the head on Monday, September 3, while responding to a shoplifting call at a Walmart. He underwent surgery last week at Grady Memorial Hospital to relieve swelling on his brain. 

On Thursday, the Covington Police Department said Officer Cooper has been responding to questions by the squeeze of a hand and even waved to his nurse as she left the room.

"Matt is continuing to fight and his progress, though slow, is impressive," the police department said on Facebook. "Officer Cooper still has a very long way to go so please continue your positive thoughts and prayers."

The police department also said Officer Cooper's condition remains serious, asking everyone to continue praying for him and his family. 

In a news release Thursday, Shepherd Center said Officer Cooper's family said they're grateful for the excellent care he received at Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center and then at Grady Memorial Hospital. 

MORE: Covington Police: Officer Cooper's progress is 'impressive'