‘He shouldn’t be alive,’ Colorado Springs 21-year-old critically injured in motorcycle crash

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - A Colorado Springs 21-year-old is facing devastating injuries after colliding with a truck on his motorcycle.

The crash that landed Tanner Hughes in Memorial Central Hospital happened the day before Thanksgiving at the intersection of Dublin and Union around 5:30 p.m.

Colorado Springs Police are still investigating what happened, but from what Tanner's family has pieced together, a truck pulled out in front of Tanner and he couldn't stop in time.

Tanner's sister, Kyra Vestal, said her stomach sank when she got the call something had happened to her brother, but even as her family visits Tanner in the hospital, they're feeling gratitude.

"I just want to say that there have been so many miracles, and my family gives thanks to God every single second of every single day because he should not be alive right now," said Vestal. "[Tanner] is very selfless, he's very giving, he has the brightest smile. That's one thing that we're grateful for is, all of his teeth are still intact."

Reflecting on what she describes as miracles, Vestal said Tanner is now breathing on his own and can open his eyes.

However, Tanner is still facing massive challenges. Vestal said Tanner's jaw will be wired shut for the next five and a half weeks and doctors are addressing bruising to his heart and his lungs. Additionally, Tanner will have to undergo multiple surgeries for his arms.

If you'd like to help Tanner and his family as they navigate the long journey ahead, you can find a verified fundraiser here.