Gov. Greg Abbott burned in accident; could miss GOP convention

DALLAS (AP) -- Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas sustained "extensive second- and third-degree burns" on both legs below the knees and on both feet and could miss next week's Republican National Convention.

Spokesman Matt Hirsch said Sunday that Abbott was in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, on Thursday when he was scalded in an accident involving hot water. He didn't provide further details.

Hours later, a Dallas gunman killed five police officers. Abbott held a press conference in Dallas on Friday, but didn't disclose being burned. Hirsch says Abbott's legs were wrapped but covered by pants.

Abbott has used a wheelchair since a tree fell on him while jogging in 1984, paralyzing him below the waist.

Abbott is heading Texas' delegation to the Republican convention in Cleveland. But Hirsch said his attendance is now "day-to-day."