Helena – Trooper Wade Palmer remains in critical condition on Wednesday March 20.
Lindsey, Trooper Palmer’s wife, has shared the following update on Wade’s condition:
“Trooper Palmer was shot three times in the head, face and neck. He is stable but his condition is still considered extremely critical. He remains in a medically induced coma at a Utah hospital. He has not regained consciousness since the shooting on Friday. Due to the nature and extent of his injuries, it may be some time before we know more about his prognosis. The family asks for the public’s patience and for their understanding that updates will not necessarily be available on a daily basis. We will keep everyone updated as appropriate via the Highway Patrol and Department of Justice. We remain cautiously optimistic that Wade will continue to see steady improvements. We recognize, however, that the overall understanding of these improvements and what they mean in the long run is still evolving and unknown at this time. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers for Wade and for us.”
The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) are also asking the public to only share information about Trooper Palmer’s condition that come directly from MHP. MHP Chief Tom Butler said in a statement spreading misinformation about Palmer can hurt his friends and family.
“There have been some false rumors circulating about Trooper Palmer’s condition,” Butler said. “While we understand that the chatter can arise from a place of genuine concern and goodwill, please understand that when Wade’s friends and relatives see misinformation posted about his condition, it is very upsetting, especially when they have to take the time and energy to dispel the rumors. With that in mind, please do not circulate or repeat a rumor or information about Trooper Palmer unless it has been verified by the Montana Highway Patrol or Department of Justice.”
Butler added, “The Highway Patrol has been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement seen in recent days. It is clear the silent majority supports their law enforcement officers. Please continue to keep Trooper Palmer and the Missoula shooting victims in your thoughts and prayers.”
People wishing to send cards or letters can send them to:
Montana Highway Patrol Headquarters, Attn: Palmer Family
2550 Prospect Avenue
Helena, MT, 59620
A GoFundMe account set up to help the Palmer family has raised over $145,000. You can donate by clicking here.
Victims Julie Blanchard and Casey Blanchard, who were shot in a related incident in Missoula, continue to recover.
Shelley Hayes, the third person shot in the Missoula incident near Airway Boulevard, died Friday March 15.
Online fundraising accounts have been set up for Hayes as well as Casey Blanchard and Julie Blanchard.
Johnathan Bertsch has been charged for the shootings that injured Palmer, the Blanchards and killed Hayes.
