Families overwhelmed by support

Now saw this Families overwhelmed by support

The families of two Christchurch police officers shot and injured in the city yesterday say they are overwhelmed by the care and concern shown to them.

Police dog handler Senior Constable Bruce Lamb, 50, and Constable Mitchel Alatalo, who turns 31 next Monday, are recovering from extensive surgery in Christchurch Hospital.

Lamb has facial and jaw injuries and is in the intensive care unit, while Alatalo is in a surgical ward with a wound to his left thigh which narrowly missed a femoral artery.

Canterbury District Commander, Superintendent Dave Cliff, said both men are in good spirits despite their pain. It's hoped Lamb will be moved from intensive care to a ward later today while Alatalo will be in hospital until possibly tomorrow depending on his response to antibiotics.

Police patrol dog Gage was shot and killed trying to save the officers' lives.

Cliff said while the injuries are serious, they are not life threatening "which is a massive relief for all of us".

None more so than the families of both officers who are being supported by their friends and colleagues.

In a statement issued through police, the families say they are deeply touched by the care and concern shown by so many people in Christchurch and throughout the country.
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