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Officer Wilt, wounded by mass shooter in Louisville, making ‘remarkable progress,’ family says

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Officer Wilt, wounded by mass shooter in Louisville, making ‘remarkable progress,’ family says

May 26, 2023 | 2:03 pm ET
By Sarah Ladd
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Officer Wilt, wounded by mass shooter in Louisville, making ‘remarkable progress,’ family says
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A line of police officers stand during a community vigil honoring the victims of the Louisville mass shooting on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at the Muhammad Ali Center plaza in Louisville, Kentucky. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Abbey Cutrer)
Officer Wilt, wounded by mass shooter in Louisville, making ‘remarkable progress,’ family says
Nickolas Wilt

A Louisville police officer who was injured while trying to stop a mass shooter in early April is making “remarkable progress,” his family said Thursday. 

Officer Nickolas Wilt took a gunshot to the head on April 10 while responding to a shooting at Old National Bank in downtown Louisville. 

He was one of nine people who were injured when a gunman brought a legally-purchased AR-15 into his place of work and killed five coworkers. 

Cory Galloway, Wilt’s field training officer, killed the shooter and was also wounded. Wilt was working his fourth shift as a police officer when he was injured on April 10. 

Wilt “is now able to respond more consistently to yes/no questions, indicating improved cognitive function,” the family reported via the Louisville Metro Police Department on social media. 

“Although his speech remains limited to 1-2 words at a time and is not yet consistent, he is making daily strides in this area as well,” the family said. 

With the help of a harness, Wilt has also started walking again “and is working on regaining strength in his legs.” 

Wilt, who was hospitalized for a month following his injury, battled with pneumonia and other lung complications. 

He’s now brushing his teeth with “minimal assistance,” the family said. 

“His determination and fighting spirit are evident as he confronts his challenges head-on and still isn’t backing down,” his family said. “Officer Wilt’s progress is truly inspiring, and his determination is a testament to his resilience. The journey towards full recovery may still be ongoing, but every day brings new advancements and achievements.”