In a written statement sent Monday afternoon, the wife of the sole survivor of the University of Alberta shooting updates his condition.
Matthew Schuman was seriously wounded, after being shot in the head in the early hours of June 15th. The armed robbery left three of his colleagues dead. Eddie Rejano, 39, Michelle Shegelski, 26, and Brian Ilesic, 35, died of their injuries.
Police have said the fifth guard was Travis Baumgartner. The 21-year-old was arrested at a U.S. border crossing near Abbotsford, B.C., less than 48 hours after the shooting. Police say he was carrying $330,000 in a backpack.
Since the shooting, Shuman has been in hospital in critical condition. Monday, his wife Jennifer provided an update on his condition, and the progress he’s made so far:
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“It’s been ten days … and we are all still trying to come to terms with this tragedy.
Because of the continued public support and genuine interest and concern for Matthew’s condition, we would like to provide a brief update on his recovery.
On June 15th, Matthew sustained a direct gun shot wound to the head. That same day, he had surgery to remove the lodged bullet and was put into an induced comma.
On Tuesday morning (June 19th) his breathing tube was removed, and soon after he was awakened. Friday, he was moved out of the Intensive Care Unit and placed into a monitoring ward.
He is undergoing physiotherapy to regain full control over his motor skills, which are present but have been greatly affected.
He recognizes his family and was overwhelmed with joy to see our two-year old son for the first time last night since the incident.
He was eagerly attentive when our son attempted to describe a new toy he received. Matthew’s communication skills are limited, but we do understand each other.
On behalf of the Schuman family we would like to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. O’Kelly for performing the life-saving surgery as well as nurse Carole and her dedicated staff for their outstanding support.
In addition, to the medical staff at the University of Alberta, we would like to thank Detective Rob Mills and the Edmonton Police Service for their professionalism and quick work in apprehending Travis.
Our family is truly appreciative of the public’s on-going support and our focus now is on Matthew’s recovery, as we try to restore a sense of normality in our lives.
Jennifer and family”
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