'A sharp pain we're still processing': Chief's update on officers injured in Saanich, B.C., bank shootout

One week after a failed bank robbery in Greater Victoria that left two suspects dead and six officers injured, the chief of the Saanich police told reporters supports were being made available to all officers as three recover in hospital.

One week after a failed bank robbery in Greater Victoria that left two suspects dead and six officers injured, the chief of the Saanich Police Department told reporters supports were being made available to all officers as three recover in hospital.

"It's very difficult to put into words. These police officers and first response partners are heroes," Chief Const. Dean Duthie said.

He provided the following update on the three officers from his department injured in the line of duty. No names are being released due to privacy concerns, although a previous media release had said that would be the case.

The most critically injured officer is still in the Intensive Care Unit. The eight-year veteran has had three surgeries so far with more anticipated.

"He continues to be surrounded by the love and the support of his family. And he's been showing signs of improvement day by day, including short conversations with his family and close friends," Duthie said.

Another officer remains in hospital in stable condition and also served eight years with Saanich Police while a third, with seven years on the force, was released after treatment.

"These officers and their families are still very deep in the recovery process. It is a day-by-day process that is full of emotion, love and protection," Duthie added.