A Berthoud Fire Protection District lieutenant was seriously injured in a head-on crash on Interstate 25 on his way to work Sunday, according to a .
Now, Ken Bradley’s family and friends are seeking donations to help cover medical bills, travel expenses, and support for his numerous injuries and subsequent surgeries. His wife and children are making daily trips from Colorado Springs to Denver to be by his side, the GoFundMe states, adding that his “road to recovery will be long.”
The firefighter suffered fractures in both legs and to his left arm, a dislocated right shoulder, several broken ribs, a collapsed lung, a leg laceration and a concussion, according to the and shared on social media by the Berthoud Fire Protection District. He has already undergone several surgeries and will need more.
“He and his wife, Carol, have three children, and their family has always been active in supporting others,” the GoFundMe post states. “Now, they are facing an unimaginable challenge.”
Bradley was struck by another vehicle traveling the wrong way in the northbound HOV lane about 7:30 a.m. Sunday morning, and the wrong-way driver was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Denver Police Departmentap preliminary findings shared in an email statement. The identity of the deceased driver has not yet been released by the medical examiner’s office.
The crash, which occurred on I-25 near 20th Street, remains under investigation.
Hundreds have shown support for Bradley and his family through over $42,000 in donations and messages of support and encouragement.
“What has carried us through all of this — truly — is the overwhelming support from every corner of our lives,” the GoFundMe post states. “We are deeply grateful for every donation, every share of the GoFundMe, every message, every thought, and every prayer. Your kindness has wrapped around us in a way we will never forget.”
The GoFundMe thanked the Berthoud, Loveland and Denver fire departments for supporting Bradley and his family.
The Loveland Fire Rescue Authority posted on Facebook on Wednesday morning that the news of Bradley’s crash was difficult because of the close relationship the two departments have.
“We’re incredibly grateful he survived, but he and his family now face a difficult road ahead as he begins his recovery,” the post stated. “We stand with our partners at the Berthoud Fire Protection District during this challenging time, and we invite the community to keep Lieutenant Bradley and his family in your thoughts and support.”
