The Montana Highway Patrol issued a statement Wednesday reiterating their request for restraint from the public in regard to speculation and the spreading of rumors about the condition of Trooper Wade Palmer.

Montana Highway Patrol Chief Tom Butler and Lindsey Palmer, the wife of Trooper Wade Palmer, provided the following statements March 20, according to the MHP release.

“There have been some false rumors circulating about Trooper Palmer’s condition,” Montana Highway Patrol Chief Tom Butler said. “While we understand that the chatter can arise from a place of genuine concern and goodwill, please understand that when Wade’s friends and relatives see misinformation posted about his condition, it is very upsetting, especially when they have to take the time and energy to dispel the rumors. With that in mind, please do not circulate or repeat a rumor or information about Trooper Palmer unless it has been verified by the Montana Highway Patrol or Department of Justice.”

Butler added, “The Highway Patrol has been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement seen in recent days. It is clear the silent majority supports their law enforcement officers. Please continue to keep Trooper Palmer and the Missoula shooting victims in your thoughts and prayers.”

Lindsey, Trooper Palmer’s wife, has shared the following update on Wade’s condition:

“Trooper Palmer was shot three times in the head, face and neck. He is stable but his condition is still considered extremely critical. He remains in a medically induced coma at a Utah hospital. He has not regained consciousness since the shooting on Friday. Due to the nature and extent of his injuries, it may be some time before we know more about his prognosis. The family asks for the public’s patience and for their understanding that updates will not necessarily be available on a daily basis. We will keep everyone updated as appropriate via the Highway Patrol and Department of Justice. We remain cautiously optimistic that Wade will continue to see steady improvements. We recognize, however, that the overall understanding of these improvements and what they mean in the long run is still evolving and unknown at this time. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers for Wade and for us.”

Palmer has been a trooper since 2012. He and his wife have two children, and he won the law enforcement agency’s highest honor, the Medal of Valor, in 2015.

The Montana Highway Patrol has reached out on social media to request that no one share unconfirmed rumors regarding Palmer or or his condition, particularly regarding any fundraising for the Palmer family.

The MHP’s Facebook page stated that there was only one official GoFundMe fundraising effort. That page can be found at gf.me/u/ri9spt.

Those wishing to send cards or letters to the Palmer family can do so through the following address: Montana Highway Patrol Headquarters, Attn: Palmer Family, 2550 Prospect Ave., Helena, MT 59620.