The Michigan man who was among the victims of Wednesday’s shooting at a congressional baseball practice near Washington, D.C. got his start in politics in Lansing.
Matt Mika’s family confirmed Wednesday afternoon he was shot multiple times in the attack in Alexandria, Virginia. He underwent surgery and remained in the intensive care unit in critical condition. His family said he is expected to stay in the hospital for several days.
Mika, an Oakland County native, currently works as the director of government relations at Tyson Foods in Washington.
Former colleague and friend David Worthams spoke to 24 Hour News 8 Wednesday after learning Mika is one of the victims.
“It was just shocking it makes me realize as big of a place as Lansing and Washington is, it really is a small world. We have connections all over the place,” Worthams said.
Worthams is the policy director for the Michigan Bankers Association, but got his start at the Michigan Capitol in the Republican Policy Office around the same time Mika began working in Lansing in 2001.
A full statement released by Mika’s family on Wednesday:
“First and foremost, thanks to all who have expressed concern about Matt’s condition. We continue to be in disbelief that he would be part of this heinous attack.
“Matt suffered multiple gunshot wounds. He recently came out of surgery but remains in the ICU in critical condition and we expect him to stay there for at least several days. Our family is now here with him and we continue to ask for privacy and understanding while we focus on Matt and his recovery.
“Many have asked about Matt and what we can share about him. While the attack today was a terrible surprise, Matt’s presence on the ball field, helping longtime colleagues and friends was not. He is a very thoughtful, fun-loving person who is competitive and loyal; all things which contributed to his continued commitment to the Congressional Baseball Game.”