Update on Wounded Casper Officer; Surgery Set for Today

The Casper Police Department on Friday morning released a short update on the condition of Officer Jacob Carlson, who was shot and severely wounded in a shootout on Sunday.

"Today, Jacob has opened his eyes and he appears to be attempting to focus on his family members who are gathered at his side," police wrote in a Facebook post.

Carlson has undergone several surgeries at Wyoming Medical Center, with the most recent on Wednesday. Carlson rested on Thursday.

"We cannot express the joy and relief that we feel at this time and again extend our gratitude to all who have helped bring this continued hope and progress to pass," the Facebook post continued.

Carlson is a three-year veteran of the department and a decorated veteran of the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant.

Carlson responded to a dirt lot near Fairdale Park at roughly 1:40 p.m. Sunday to assist Officer Randi Garrett, who had responded to a vehicle complaint.

Garrett arrived to find a white sedan with two young children and 38-year-old David P. Woloson, who was evidently the children's uncle, inside.

Dashcam video from Garrett's vehicle was released by police earlier this week. In the video, Wolosin appears to repeatedly position himself so that Garrett is away from the right side of his body.

Wolosin continues this behavior as Carlson arrives. When Carlson reaches out to detain Wolosin, Wolosin pulls out a gun and shoots Carlson.

Carlson returns fire and a shootout ensues, with the two officers taking cover behind the white car and Wolosin continuing to shoot, despite the fact that the children were still inside the vehicle.

Wolosin was killed. Carlson was shot five times, with bullets striking his lower waist and legs.

As of Wednesday, Chief of Police Keith McPheeters said some 100 units of blood and blood products had been used in treating Carlson's wounds.

The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation continues to work the case.