US gurudwara shooting: One injured critical

Washington: Santokh Singh who was injured in the August 5 shooting at a Gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin has been released from the hospital, officials said. However, another Indian American, Punjab Singh, remains in critical condition.

Lt Brian Murphy, the police officer who valiantly countered the attack from the lone gunman during the shooting remains hospitalised in satisfactory condition. He was shot multiple times.

The local Froedtert hospital in its medical bulletin issued on Wednesday said that Santokh Singh's family has asked the media to honour their wish for privacy as he continues his recovery.

Santokh Singh, 50, had suffered a single gunshot wound that penetrated his chest, diaphragm, stomach and liver. All of his injuries were repaired in two surgeries.

Another injured, Punjab Singh (65) suffered a single gunshot wound on the face that caused facial fractures and damage to his right carotid and vertebral artery.

There is evidence he also may have subsequently suffered a stroke, officials said, adding that he requires mechanical support to breathe and remains in critical condition.

Earlier in a statement, Gurjeet Singh, nephew of Santokh Singh, said they are "profoundly touched by the outpouring of support" from people across the world.

"We are thankful to law enforcement and emergency responders at the scene and extend gratitude to the caregivers at Froedtert Hospital.

"We are pleased to know that Lieutenant Murphy is progressing so well in his recovery and pray for the continued healing of Punjab Singh," Gurjeet Singh said.

Six Sikh worshipers, including four Indian nationals were killed when the lone gunman, who was identified to be Wade Michael Page, allegedly a white supremacist, went on a shooting spree inside the gurdwara on August 5. Page died in a self-inflicting injury.

The police is yet to determine the motive behind the shootout.

The US Attorney General, Eric Holder, at a memorial service last week had called it as an act of domestic terrorism.

Some of the Sikh organisations and law makers have termed it as a hate crime.

The US President, Barack Obama, had called for "soul searching" after the tragic attack, which shocked people in both India and the US.