Family of cop injured in Gurdwara shooting thank Sikhs
The family of the police officer who took nine bullets while taking on the gunman in a shooting incident at a Wisconsin Gurdwara, thanked the Sikh community for their prayers and support.
Lieutenant Brian Murphy and two others, Santokh Singh and Punjab Singh, were admitted to a city hospital, when 40-year-old Wade Michael Page, an ex-army veteran, went on a shooting spree killing six Sikhs on Sunday before dying of a self-inflicted gun shot wound.
Murphy, 51, is in a satisfactory condition. "We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and compassion we have received from so many people during this difficult time for our family, and especially thank the Sikh community for including us in their prayers," the statement issued by Murphy's family said.
In a media bulleting issued late yesterday, Froedtert Hospital said the condition of Santokh Singh has been upgraded to satisfactory.
However, Punjab Singh remains in a critical condition. Families of both Murphy and Santokh Singh issued statements through the hospital.
"We will never forget their heroic actions and quick thinking that saved so many lives on that terrible day. We also want to thank the doctors, nurses and the entire staff at Froedtert Hospital for the exceptional care Brian has received. He has made remarkable progress despite his serious injuries," said the statement issued by family of Murphy, who was shot multiple times during the shootout.
"As we continue to support Brian and hope for his recovery, we remember the families who lost loved ones in this tragedy. They, and the entire Sikh community, are in our thoughts and prayers," the statement added.
In a statement Gurjeet Singh, nephew of Santokh Singh, said they are "profoundly touched by the outpouring of support" from people across the world.
Santokh Singh, 50, suffered a single gunshot wound that penetrated his chest, diaphragm, stomach and liver.
All of his injuries were repaired in two surgeries. "We are thankful to law enforcement and emergency responders at the scene and extend gratitude to the caregivers at Froedtert Hospital. We are pleased to know that Lieutenant Murphy is progressing so well in his recovery and pray for the continued healing of Punjab Singh," the statement said.
"Today, we pause to remember and honour those who lost their lives in this tragedy, and we pray that our world becomes a more peaceful place," it added.
Punjab Singh, 65, suffered a single gunshot wound to the face that caused facial fractures and damage to his right carotid and vertebral artery.
There is evidence he also may have subsequently suffered a stroke. He requires mechanical support to breathe and remains in critical condition.
