Texas College Student Suffers Catastrophic Burns After Fiery Crash
On a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning, September 7, 2025, 19-year-old Aidan Poole was driving toward Texas Tech University, ready to continue his journey as an honors student. But what should have been a routine trip to campus turned into a nightmare that would change his life forever. An alleged drunk driver, Thomas Rich, rear-ended Aidan's car on I-27 in Hale County, Texas, with such force that it sent Aidan's vehicle airborne. Upon landing, the gas tank exploded, engulfing the car in flames and leaving Aidan with catastrophic burns and severe trauma.
The Crash and Immediate Aftermath
The impact of the collision was devastating. Aidan's car was not only struck but launched into the air, and the explosion of the gas tank turned the accident into a fiery inferno. Despite the chaos, Aidan fought to escape the burning vehicle. His mother, Kristi Poole, his mother, recounted how her son struggled to unlock the car door amid the flames, managing to keep his eyes closed to avoid the searing heat. The physical injuries he sustained were severe second- and third-degree burns covering significant portions of his body, described by medical professionals and family alike as "catastrophic" and "life-changing," as reported by PEOPLE.
Aidan's girlfriend, Jadzia, was at work when she received the harrowing call. She could hear sirens and Aidan's distressed voice in the background, a moment that plunged her into shock. Meanwhile, Aidan's parents have been by his side, spending long hours at the hospital in Lubbock, where he is currently receiving specialized care in a burn unit. After weeks in the hospital's burn center, Aidan was transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility to continue his recovery. The family's routine now revolves around hospital visits, work, and returning to the hospital, a grueling cycle that underscores the emotional toll of the tragedy.
The Human Cost: Beyond Physical Injuries
The physical wounds are only part of Aidan's battle. The trauma extends deeply into his mental and emotional well-being. According to the GoFundMe page set up by his family, Aidan is "experiencing significant trauma and PTSD from the crash" in addition to his physical injuries, as reported by the New York Post. The psychological scars of such a violent event can be as debilitating as the physical ones, requiring long-term therapy and support.
Despite his own suffering, Aidan's concern for others involved in the crash was remarkable. His mother shared that he asked about the occupants of the Porsche that struck him, showing a selflessness and kindness that friends and family say define him. Described as tender-hearted, intelligent, and possessing a witty sense of humor, Aidan's character shines through even in the darkest moments.
Legal Stakes: Accountability and Justice
The driver accused of causing this life-altering accident, Thomas Rich, was arrested by the Hale County Sheriff's Office and charged with intoxication assault. He was released on bond on September 9, 2025. The legal process is underway, and Aidan's family is seeking justice, emphasizing that the crash should never have happened and that Rich must take responsibility for his actions. The charge of intoxication assault carries serious consequences, reflecting the gravity of the harm caused by driving under the influence.
This case highlights the ongoing dangers of impaired driving and the devastating ripple effects it can have on victims and their families. It also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of legal accountability in protecting public safety.
The Road to Recovery: Hope Amid Hardship
Aidan's journey to recovery will be long and challenging. He faces multiple surgeries to treat the "catastrophic injuries" and extensive rehabilitation to regain function and adapt to his new reality. His family has relocated near the hospital in Lubbock to support him through this process, incurring significant expenses for lodging, medical bills, and daily living costs. The community has rallied around Aidan, with a GoFundMe campaign aiming to raise $45,000 to help cover these mounting costs. By Sunday night following the crash, the fundraiser had already raised over $40,000, reflecting strong community support and generosity.
Aidan's story is a powerful call to action — to drive responsibly, to support victims of tragedy, and to appreciate the resilience of the human spirit. It's also a reminder that behind every headline is a person fighting to reclaim their life.
References: Student Suffers 'Catastrophic' Burns After Hit by Alleged Drunk Driver En Route to Campus | Texas college student suffers 'catastrophic' burns after being struck by alleged drunk driver | Texas College Student, 19, Suffers 'Life-Changing' Burns After Being Hit By Alleged Drunk Driver
