WASHINGTON – A Michigan who was injured Wednesday in a shooting at a GOP baseball practice has been upgraded to serious condition, according to hospital officials.
Matt Mika's family released an update on his condition Thursday morning. At the time he was listed in critical condition.
Here is the full statement from Matt Mika's family:
"We truly appreciate the outpouring of support, love and prayers. Our family continues to be in shock and we ask for privacy while we focus on Matt and his care. Because of his condition, Matt cannot receive visitors or accept gifts in the ICU.
"Matt was shot multiple times in his chest and arm and suffered massive trauma. He remains in critical condition in the ICU at George Washington University Hospital. He requires assistance to breathe and will need additional surgeries. Matt has been alert, conscious and communicating through notes.
"We are grateful for the care he has received, from the first responders in the field to the world-class care here at the hospital. We understand he is lucky to be alive and we owe it to these amazing individuals and Matt’s fighting spirit and grit. Additionally, we want to thank the Capitol Police for their heroic actions to stop the shooter before he could hurt even more people.
"Further updates will be provided if and when Matt’s condition changes."
Mika, of Oakland County, is the current director of government relations at Tyson Foods and was at the practice Wednesday morning.
READ: Congressman Steve Scalise, 4 others shot at GOP baseball practice in Virginia
Mika previously served on congressional staff for Rep. Tim Walberg (R - MI 7th) and former Rep. Dave Camp (R - MI 4th) as well as serving on the staff of state Rep. David Palsrok.
Mika was shot multiple times and is in critical condition. He is undergoing surgery.
“Baseball is one of his great passions, and he has always loved the congressional team,” Mika’s family said in a release.
Mika has been with Tyson Foods for more than six years. He is a graduate of Adrian College.
Officials identify shooter
The gunman who fired on lawmakers at the GOP baseball practice has been identified as James T. Hodgkinson, 66.
Hodgkinson has a violent criminal history, and FBI agents said they believe he had been living out of his car in the Alexandria area since March.
He was brought down by Capitol Police.
Witnesses described the actions of the officers who brought down Hodgkinson as "heroic."
Michigan congressmen describe attack
Michigan congressmen spoke with Kimberly Gill about the attack they witnessed on the baseball field. You can listen to the details in the video posted below.
Rep. Debbie Dingell responds
Rep. Debbie Dingell spoke after lawmakers were shot at a GOP baseball practice. You can hear her comments in the video posted below: