Semi-trailer driver charged in Winnipeg crash that caused 'life-altering injuries' to 2 people
Rig smashed into back of passenger vehicle, crumpling it on Lagimodiere Boulevard
A 29-year-old man has been charged in connection with a multi-vehicle crash in Winnipeg last summer that left a woman with fractured vertebrae and many other broken bones.
Emergency crews were called to Lagimodiere Boulevard and East Mint Place, close to the Royal Canadian Mint, around 10:20 a.m. on July 5, 2024, for a crash involving two semi-trailers and an SUV.
A video of the crash posted to X showed the SUV was stopped behind one semi at a red light when another semi smashed into it. The SUV was crumpled between the two larger rigs.
The woman was airlifted in critical condition to hospital and a man was rushed to hospital in an ambulance.
"Both suffered life altering injuries as a result of the collision," police said in a news release on Thursday, announcing that after a lengthy investigation, the truck driver, 29, has been charged with dangerous driving causing injuries. He was detained in custody.
A GoFundMe was set up for Carli Paetzold, the woman injured in the crash. She underwent surgery to fuse her spine which was successful, with surgeons noting that she was incredibly lucky to avoid paralysis, the GoFundMe stated.
Marcus Paetzold suffered bruises, lacerations and a serious concussion.
"They have a long road to recovery," the GoFundMe stated.