ETOWAH COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) – A Tennessee man is in serious condition after a serious crash in Etowah County.

Last Friday, Malia Duarte and her fiance Austin Bowman were traveling from Tennessee to Cropwell, Alabama for her father’s birthday. Traveling on southbound I-59 in Etowah County, a tire came off a trailer and flew into the windshield causing severe damage to their truck.

Austin was seriously injured and taken to Riverview Hospital in Gadsden and later airlifted to UAB, where he remains in serious condition. Malia says every bone in her face was broken and is currently sedated for her comfort. Walking away with minor bumps and bruises, Malia says this accident could have been prevented.

“I think it was a freak accident. I don’t think who got tired was that it was a goal. I think it was careless because I think they underestimate the power that the tires have and you shouldn’t cheapen your gear, you should check your gear before you ride,” said Malia.

Malia says Austin was able to open his eyes today and has a long road to recovery ahead of him. Is there a GoFundMe arranged for Austin’s care.

Get news alerts in Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter Here.

Copyright 2024 WBRC. All rights reserved.