California Man in Coma After Hit-and-Run Incident in Chicago

Introduction to the Incident

Loved ones are devastated as a Southern California man remains on life support after being struck by a hit-and-run driver.

On June 7, Alex Olmedo II, 66, was on a work trip in Chicago when he decided to walk his friend’s dogs.

The Accident

Surveillance video captured the moment Olmedo was struck by the driver on the 100 block of South Michigan Avenue, in the Loop, just after 9:30 p.m.

Details of the Incident

“One of the dogs was overly excited to get to the park that was on the other side of the street, so he began getting overly animated,” his son, Alex Olmedo III, told Nexstar-affiliate KTLA.
As Olmedo chased after the dog, his son said, "He was struck by a vehicle. He was launched into the middle of the street."
The collision had punctured both of Olmedo’s lungs and he was left with multiple broken bones. He was rushed to the hospital, where he remains on Thursday night.

Current Condition and Support

However, he is unable to breathe on his own and has been on life support for almost three weeks. The dogs escaped with only minimal injuries.
“He’s battling pneumonia right now,” his son said. “He’s completely in a coma. He’s not breathing on his own.”
Earlier this year, family members said Olmedo had been displaced by the deadly Palisades fire.
“He’s been living in hotels and with friends and family since the incident,” his son said.

Community Response and Fundraising

Just last month, Olmedo had something to celebrate when he witnessed his son getting married and was surrounded by family. His loved ones said it’s a painful reminder that things can change in an instant.
“The family and myself are remaining hopeful, but it’s been really tough,” his son said.
As hospital bills pile up, his family is saving up their money while hoping Olmedo will pull through.
“Insurance will only help us so much, so we’re reaching out to our local communities and asking for help,” his son said.
As of Friday evening, a GoFundMe page to help Olmedo’s family with hospital bills has raised nearly $35,000 of its $45,000 goal.

Conclusion

The incident highlights the importance of community support during difficult times. The family’s hope for Olmedo’s recovery is palpable, and the fundraising efforts demonstrate the power of community in helping those in need.

FAQs

• Q: What happened to Alex Olmedo II?
  A: Alex Olmedo II was struck by a hit-and-run driver in Chicago while walking his friend’s dogs.
• Q: What is Olmedo’s current condition?
  A: Olmedo is in a coma, unable to breathe on his own, and has been on life support for almost three weeks.
• Q: How can people help Olmedo’s family?
  A: People can help by donating to the GoFundMe page set up to help with hospital bills.
• Q: What was the cause of the accident?
  A: The accident occurred when one of the dogs Olmedo was walking got overly excited and ran into the street, prompting Olmedo to chase after it, resulting in the collision.