HAM LAKE, Minn. — A Minnesota family is asking for prayers and community support after 16-year-old Paxton Roy was critically injured in a head-on collision involving three teenagers on Monday afternoon in Ham Lake.
According to statements shared by Paxton’s parents, Ashley and Eric Roy, the crash resulted in life-threatening injuries that required emergency medical intervention. Paxton was airlifted to Regions Hospital, where he remains in critical condition on life support.
The family said they have received few details about the circumstances of the crash beyond confirmation that it was a head-on collision. They also expressed hope for the recovery of the other individuals involved.
Medical updates released by the family describe the severity of Paxton’s injuries. He suffered multiple traumatic brain injuries with bleeding in several areas of the brain. As swelling increased and caused his brain to shift, surgeons performed emergency surgery to remove part of his skull to relieve pressure. A drain has also been placed to monitor and reduce intracranial pressure. Paxton remains in a medically induced coma while doctors closely monitor his condition.
In addition to his brain injuries, Paxton sustained bruising to both lungs, a collapsed lung, fractures to both femurs, a broken left forearm, multiple fractures throughout his pelvis and hip, a fracture in his lower back, a broken nose, deep lacerations, and several other traumatic injuries. He has already undergone multiple surgeries, including procedures to place external fixators on both legs to stabilize the fractures.
His family said the greatest concern remains the swelling in his brain, with the coming days expected to be critical as physicians work to give him the best possible chance of recovery.
“Our family respectfully asks for privacy as we focus on Paxton and the difficult hours, days, and months ahead,” the family said in a public statement. “Please continue to pray for his surgeons, his medical team, and for Paxton to get through the many surgeries to come.”
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and members of the local real estate community. Many have asked how they can help the Roy family during this difficult time.
To assist with immediate expenses such as meals, groceries, transportation, and other day-to-day necessities while the family remains at Paxton’s bedside, a GoFundMe campaign has been established. Organizers say additional opportunities to support the family may become available as Paxton’s recovery progresses.
Supporters have also been encouraged to share the fundraiser and keep the Roy family in their thoughts and prayers.
Despite the immense challenges ahead, Paxton’s loved ones remain grateful for the overwhelming kindness they have received from the community.
“We know so many people love Paxton,” the family shared. “We are incredibly grateful for every prayer, message, and act of kindness. Please continue to pray for healing, for wisdom for his medical team, and for strength for our family as we take this one moment at a time.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Ham Lake crash.
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