Texas College Student Suffers Catastrophic Burns After Alleged Drunk Driver Crash En Route to Campus
Details of the Harrowing Incident
According to reports, the collision occurred on I-27 in Hale County when Thomas Rich, the driver accused of being intoxicated, slammed into the rear of Aidan’s car. The impact was so forceful that Aidan’s vehicle was sent airborne, and tragically, the gas tank exploded upon landing, causing catastrophic burns.
The driver, Thomas Rich, has been arrested by the Hale County Sheriff’s Office and charged with intoxication assault. Authorities have yet to provide additional comments as of September 27, 2024.
Family and Loved Ones Respond to the Tragedy
The emotional toll of the accident has been profound for Aidan’s family and girlfriend. His girlfriend, Jadzia, recalled the moment she received the terrifying phone call:
“When I answered the phone, I could just hear everything in the back. I could hear sirens. I could hear Aidan in the back crying and freaking out. I could hear the wind and all the commotion. And I literally […] just went into complete shock.”
His mother, Kristi Poole, shared the heartbreaking experience of seeing her son in the hospital:
“You don’t ever want to hear your child cry and scream, and just seeing all of his burns is something you never want to see. He struggled trying to get the door unlocked. He knew how to keep his eyes closed because there was so much fire.”
Kristi and her husband James Poole have been dedicating their time to support Aidan during his recovery, maintaining a rigorous schedule of hospital visits from early morning to evening.
Ongoing Medical Challenges and Support Efforts
Aidan is currently receiving intensive care in the burn unit in Lubbock and faces multiple surgeries ahead. In addition to his physical injuries, he is coping with the psychological aftermath of the trauma.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up by loved ones to assist the Poole family with mounting expenses related to medical bills, lodging, food, travel, and legal fees. The page highlights Aidan’s remarkable character as an honors student at Texas Tech, describing him as:
- Selfless and tender-hearted
- Intelligent with a witty sense of humor
- Kind and inspiring to those around him
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What This Means for the Community and Road Safety
This accident underscores the severe consequences of driving under the influence and serves as a somber reminder of the need for community awareness and stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws. The Poole family, amidst their hardship, hopes their story will raise awareness and help prevent future tragedies on the road.
For more detailed information, visit the original report on People.com.
How You Can Help and Show Support
With the Poole family facing significant financial and emotional challenges, community support is vital. Contributions to the ongoing GoFundMe campaign can assist them during this difficult journey. Additionally, spreading awareness about the dangers of drunk driving can be a powerful way to honor Aidan’s courage and resilience.
Key Facts at a Glance:
- Aidan Poole, 19, Texas Tech honors student, severely injured in a drunk driving crash on Sept. 7, 2024
- The alleged driver, Thomas Rich, arrested and charged with intoxication assault
- Vehicle explosion caused catastrophic burns to Aidan
- Aidan is battling both physical and psychological injuries, including PTSD
- Family dedicates full-time support at Lubbock hospital
- GoFundMe launched to assist with medical and living expenses
What do you think about this incident and the devastating impact of drunk driving? Have you or someone you know been affected by similar tragedies? Share your thoughts and support in the comments below!