Wounded congressman remains in critical condition after park shooting
Jun 15, 2017, 9:16 AM | Updated: 1:03 pm
The baseball field that is the scene of a shooting in Alexandria, Va., Wednesday, June 14, 2017, where House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of La. was shot at a congressional baseball practice. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
A day after being shot at a baseball practice for an upcoming charity game, Congressman Steve Scalise remained in critical condition Thursday at a Washington hospital.
President Donald Trump said of Scalise’s injuries, “… it’s been much more difficult than people even thought at the time. He’s in some trouble.”
MedStar Washington Hospital said in a short press release that Scalise, who was struck in the hip by a bullet from a rifle, had suffered internal damage and would require more surgeries.
House Majority Whip Scalise and a handful of others were wounded Wednesday by man later identified as James Hodgkinson, 66, of Illinois. He was killed by Capitol Police at the park in Alexandria, Virginia.
Trump visited the Louisiana congressman Wednesday night.
Just left hospital. Rep. Steve Scalise, one of the truly great people, is in very tough shape – but he is a real fighter. Pray for Steve!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 15, 2017
Vice President Mike Pence also paid a visit.
Karen & I just left @MedStarWHC. Thanked docs & staff. Keep @SteveScalise, Officer Griner & all involved & their loved ones in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/JcKwTMLPDH
— Vice President Pence (@VP) June 15, 2017
Scalise had been fielding groundballs when the shooting began. Bleeding and in pain, he dragged himself to the outfield in an attempt to dodge more gunfire.
Arizona Sen. Jeff Flake and another legislator eventually were able to leave the dugout where they had gone for cover, to tend to Scalise’s wound. Medical personnel arrived soon after.
The House gaveled back into session Thursday.
Lawmakers of both parties, shaken by the events of the previous day, took turns offering prayers for the wounded and calls for unity as they spoke on the House floor.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
