A Minnesota pastor is continuing to appeal for prayers after a police officer and member of his congregation was shot in the head.
According to Fox News, Waseca officer Arik Matson remains in critical condition after being gravely in a shooting when he and two colleagues responded to a call on January 6.
According to his CaringBridge site, Arik was shot in the upper right forehead, with the bullet exiting behind his right ear. The wounded officer underwent emergency surgery at North Memorial Health Hospital in Robbinsdale, with surgeons removing a portion of his brain along with a number of bone fragments.
In a video update, Hope Church pastor, Kaleb Hurley, said that while there have been some positive signs in his recovery, Matson has got a very long way to go.
“Make no mistake, … Arik still has a really long road ahead of him,” Hurley explained. “It’s a miracle he’s alive.”
Incredibly, despite the traumatic nature of his injuries, Officer Matson is able to respond to questions by squeezing a finger and can even give a thumbs-up sign.
“He’s still breathing on his own with a little help from the ventilator from time to time when he tires out,” explained relative, Nicole Matson.
Now, Hurley said, it is time for the people of God to knuckle down in prayer.
“We want to continue to ask God that God will preserve his life,” the pastor declared, “that Arik will be able to have a life that will be full and filled with relationships with his wife and children and his community.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help ease any financial burdens, along with covering any excess in Arik’s medical expenses. “Any support and prayers are greatly appreciated,” the page read. So far, almost $200,000 has been raised.
Huge waves of support have been pouring in for the injured hero, including a wonderful gesture from Minnesota Vikings star, Adam Thielen.
“Arik got a special package today from Minnesota Vikings (the third one he’s gotten so I think they know he’s a super fan!),” Nicole explained. “It was an official MN Vikings helmet, signed by one of Arik’s favorite players, Adam Thielen! He’s going to be stoked to see that. Overall, it’s been a good day and we’re happy to see him a lot more comfortable.”
“My heart is with you and your family,” one person wrote on the GoFundMe page. “You are all heroes.”
Matson is a former SWAT team member, city councilman and volunteer firefighter.
Minnesota native Tyler Janovsky has been charged with three counts of attempting to murder a police officer and possession of a firearm by an ineligible person.