Trooper Palmer Communicating With Hand Gestures, Facial Expressions

The Montana Highway Patrol has issued an update on Trooper Wade Palmer who was shot three times in the line of duty near Missoula.

According to the Associated Press, Palmer is still not able to talk and his movements are limited. He is showing signs of recognizing some people and is able to interact with hand gestures and facial expressions.

Palmer is currently in a Salt Lake City hospital where he is undergoing physical therapy to strengthen his left arm and leg.

The AP also reports that Palmer currently has limited movement on his right side.

Trooper Palmer was shot in the neck and head on March 15 while investigating a shooting where one person was killed and two others were injured.

Johnathan Bertsch was arrested for homicide and attempted homicide and has pleaded not guilty.

This past Saturday in Bozeman, a BBQ fundraiser was held to help raise money for Trooper Palmer and his family. Nearly $8000 was raised at the Blue Line Barbecue in the Safeway parking lot.