CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The University of Virginia football player injured in the tragic shooting on grounds Sunday night has improved to "fair condition," according to UVA Health officials and a family spokesperson.
Mike Hollinsis one of five people allegedly shot by a UVA student on a bus that had just returned to the school from a field trip to Washington D.C. He is one of two people who survived the shooting, and has been in critical condition since Sunday night.
Hollins's condition appears to be improving after having two surgeries. Attorney Gordon McKernan — who is not representing the running back but is a long-time family friend — told CBS affiliate WDBJ that Hollins is now doing well and is off of a ventilator. Previously he was only able to communicate by writing with a pen on a piece of paper, his mom, Brenda, had told CBS News.
Thursday morning, Hollins's family said he was awake, alert and taking steps.
Brenda said her son was shot in the back and the bullet exited through his stomach.
"He's so kindhearted. When he loves you, he loves you," said Brenda about Mike. "He strives. He is a fighter."
Three of Hollins's teammates were killed in shooting: Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr. and D'Sean Perry.
The fifth victim involved was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday and was identified by court documents as Marlee Morgan.
Hollins is a third year student from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
