One of the children injured in a mass shooting at a South Texas church will require multiple surgeries in his recovery.
Ryland Ward, 5, was sitting in the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs with his stepmother and two stepsisters when he was shot early Sunday afternoon. Police said Devin Patrick Kelley, 26, entered the church and opened fire on the congregation, killing 26 and injuring another 20.
Ward, though shot multiple times, survived the shooting. His stepmother and stepsisters were killed in the assault.
Ward's mother, Chancie McMahan, told a friend her son is in critical condition. She said he was shot in several places and may lose his arm; another bullet shattered his femur. The boy was also shot twice in the abdomen where he suffered damage to his kidney, bladder, intestines and scrotum. Each injury will require separate surgeries when he has stabilized.
Frieds of the Ward family have set up an account at the Commercial National Bank in San Saba to help cover the child's medical expenses. Donations can be made at either the San Saba or Brady location and can be left in either his or his mother's name. If you're unable to visit the bank in person, donations can be mailed to the Commercial National Bank at P.O. Box 995, San Saba, Texas 76877.
