On Friday, December 12, doctors stated that the National Guard member who was critically injured in the Washington D.C. shooting is now able to breathe on his own and can stand with assistance.
Survivor of the D.C. shooting and Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe’s medical team released a statement saying that Wolfe, who was shot in the head 16 days ago, was taken to the MedStar Washington Hospital Center for treatment, and his condition has shown “significant progress.”
Neurosurgeon Jeffrey Mai mentioned in the statement that Wolfe “is now able to breathe on his own and can stand with assistance – these are important milestones, reflecting his strength and determination.”
The medical team announced on Friday that based on Wolfe’s recent improvement, they are prepared to transition him from acute care to inpatient rehabilitation.
Also injured in the shooting alongside Wolfe was Army Specialist 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, both members of the West Virginia National Guard. Sarah was ambushed and shot in Washington D.C. on November 26 and tragically passed away the following day due to the severity of her injuries.
The 29-year-old suspect, Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is charged with murder, felonious assault with a weapon, and possession of a firearm during a violent crime. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Wolfe’s family expressed gratitude to all healthcare professionals caring for him. In a statement, his family thanked the healthcare workers for their outstanding efforts and described Wolfe’s recovery progress as a “miracle.”
At the same time, they acknowledged that Wolfe faces a long and challenging road to recovery.
His family stated, “We believe he will continue to recover quickly and know that everyone’s prayers are working. Please continue to pray for him, and may God heal Wolfe, grant him the strength to return to his job, to the West Virginia National Guard, and continue his new mission as a beacon of light in the world.”