Student nurse, 19, fighting for life after ‘hit and run’

A 19-year-old student nurse is currently fighting for her life in a hospital after being involved in a suspected hit-and-run incident. Freya Theobold was a passenger in a Ford Fiesta when it was struck head-on by a stolen Land Rover being pursued by the police. The tragic collision occurred on the A449 Stafford Road in Wolverhampton, causing severe injuries to Freya. She was rushed to Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital following the crash on September 30.

As a result of the accident, Freya suffered multiple critical injuries, including a fractured spine, a collapsed lung, a split bowel, and a brain bleed. She has undergone emergency surgery to address some of these injuries and is currently in an induced coma. Heartbreaking images of Freya in the hospital have been shared by her family, illustrating the gravity of her condition.

Freya’s step-mum, Jolene, recounted the terrifying incident, explaining that Freya was returning home with a colleague after a shift caring for palliative care patients when the Land Rover veered into their lane, resulting in the devastating collision. The impact left Freya trapped in the wreckage, necessitating her extrication by emergency services.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Freya remains in a critical state, with planned spinal surgery pending as her condition stabilises. Her family described her as fortunate to have survived the ordeal, given the extent of her injuries. They emphasised the long and challenging road to recovery that Freya faces, highlighting the profound impact the incident has had on her life.

An 18-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident but has since been released. Freya’s father, Tom, expressed his desire for justice and underscored the long-lasting emotional and physical ramifications that the accident will have on Freya. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by friends to support Freya’s medical expenses, garnering significant community support.

The harrowing ordeal faced by Freya serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and the catastrophic consequences that can result. The outpouring of support for Freya and her family reflects the community’s solidarity in times of tragedy, rallying behind those in need. As Freya continues her fight for recovery, the hope for justice and healing remains at the forefront of her loved ones’ minds.