'All we saw was blood': Local band member nearly killed by a flying chain while driving
Stroud, Okla. (KOKH) — UPDATE [May 29th]:
The band CLIFFDIVER announced on Twitter on Sunday that Tyler Rogers has been released from the hospital. The band says he is now resting comfortably at home, where his journey to recovery will continue.
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ORIGINAL [May 25th]:
A member of the local band CLIFFDIVER is recovering after a serious accident that happened Tuesday on Interstate 44 near Stroud while they were driving to a music festival in Las Vegas.
The band says a chain link from an 18-wheeler came flying through the van's window, launching into the driver's neck.
The driver is out of ICU and doctors say it is a miracle he is alive.
On Tuesday, the seven-member crew was happy, healthy, and heading to play a rock festival in Las Vegas.
"We were all super excited," singer Joey Duffy said. "We were in high spirits. All of a sudden this loud pop came and the window blew out and exploded."
Duffy says bassist Tyler Rogers was behind the wheel.
"His foot was down on the accelerator and he was unconscious," Duffy said. "We kept accelerating and we were swerving all over the lanes."
A chain link from an 18-wheeler blew off and lodged into a major artery in Tyler's neck, police say.
"All we saw was blood pouring out of his neck and we were just trying to do whatever we could," Duffy said.
Tyler is now awake and at a Tulsa hospital.
"He is walking around today and he is eating real food," Duffy said. "He is out of ICU. He is a tough dude. He is resilient."
Bandmates say Tyler is still making jokes and they are there by his side.
"His first words when he woke up were 'I am sorry that I bled inside the van,'" Duffy said. "We all told him to not worry."
A Go Fund Me is set up in Tyler's name and fans are showing their support. Click here if you want to donate.
"I think the outpouring of love is surreal," Duffy said. "It is fresh still, but this is beautiful."
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