WASHINGTON, D.C. (KFSM) -- A Tyson Foods employee was shot at a congressional baseball practice just outside of Washington on Wednesday morning (June 14).
Matt Mika, who works as a lobbyist, was the fifth person shot on the field during Wednesday morning's practice, CBS News reported. He was reportedly shot multiple times and was admitted to an area hospital in critical condition.
The shooting took place at a practice for the GOP congressional baseball team, where Mika is a volunteer coach.
Mika's family released the following statement about his condition:
"Matt suffered multiple gunshot wounds. He recently came out of surgery but remains in the ICU in critical condition and we expect him to stay there for at least several days. Our family is now here and we ask for your privacy and understanding while we focus on Matt and his recovery."
Tyson Foods released the following statement about the shooting:
"We have confirmed that Matt Mika, director-government relations for our Washington, D.C. office, is among those who was shot this morning in Alexandria. He has been taken to a local hospital and we’re awaiting word on his condition. Matt has worked for Tyson Foods for more than six years and we’re deeply concerned about him and his family."
Mika used to work as a staffer for Congressman Dave Camp of Michigan.
Steve Scalise, a member of the House Republican leadership as the majority whip, appeared to have been shot in the hip.
Two Capitol Police officers and a staffer for Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas were also injured during the shooting.
The gunman, identified as James T. Hodgkinson, 66, of Belleville, Illinois, was also injured by capitol police, who returned fire.
According to both congressional and law enforcement sources, the shooting appears to be a “deliberate attack.”
Matt Mika’s family released the flowing statement on his condition Thursday (June 15) morning:
“We truly appreciate the outpouring of support, love and prayers. Our family continues to be in shock and we ask for privacy while we focus on Matt and his care. Because of his condition, Matt cannot receive visitors or accept gifts in the ICU.
Matt was shot multiple times in his chest and suffered massive trauma. He remains in critical condition in the ICU at George Washington University Hospital. He requires assistance to breathe and will need additional surgeries. Matt has been alert, conscious and communicating through notes.
We are grateful for the care he has received, from the first responders in the field to the world-class care here at the hospital. We understand he is lucky to be alive and we owe it to these amazing individuals and Matt’s fighting spirit and grit. Additionally, we want to thank the Capitol Police for the heroic actions to stop the shooter before he could hurt even more people.
Further updates will be provided if and when Matt’s condition changes.”