Drunk Driver Causes Severe Burns to University Student

A University of Texas student suffered extensive burns after a drunk driver collided with his vehicle. The incident has left many in shock.

Nineteen-year-old Aidan Pool was driving towards Texas Tech along I-27 when he was struck by Thomas Rich, allegedly under the influence. The impact was so forceful that it caused his car to fly into the air, resulting in a gas tank explosion.

The aftermath was devastating; Aidan sustained serious second and third-degree burns, as reported. Local news indicated that Rich was arrested by the Hale County Sheriff’s Office and faced charges related to the incident.

His mother, Christy Poole, shared her heartache, expressing how hard it is to witness her son’s injuries. “Looking at all his burns is something you never want to see,” she remarked, noting the distress of hearing him cry out in pain.

In a poignant moment, Aidan’s concern for others was evident. When he asked his mother about the drivers in the other car, it surprised her that he was more worried about their well-being than his own injuries.

Meanwhile, Aidan’s girlfriend, Jazia, received the unfortunate news while at work. “When I answered the phone, I could hear everything happening around me—the sirens, Aidan’s cries, it was chaotic,” she recounted.

A second-year physics major, Aidan is currently admitted to a hospital burn unit with what has been described as “severe, life-changing burns.” He is expected to undergo multiple surgeries to address his significant injuries.

Following the crash, Aidan has also been coping with considerable trauma and PTSD, as mentioned in a fundraiser set up for his medical expenses.

Those who know Aidan describe him as “selfless and kind” with a sharp sense of humor that draws people in. His family, residing outside Lubbock, is now facing hefty expenses not only for his medical care but also for relocation and replacing items lost in the accident.

As of Sunday night, the GoFundMe campaign set up for Aidan had raised over $40,000, nearing its goal of $45,000.

Christy is adamant that the driver must be held accountable. “He shouldn’t have done this, and he needs to be responsible for his actions. There’s no reason this should have happened,” she stated, visibly distressed.