Fundraiser launched for Scottish teen footballer critically injured by driver in New York

A fundraiser has been launched for a teenage footballer who has been left critically injured after being hit by a car in New York.

Ethan Walker was struck while walking back to his dorm at Genesee Community College in Rochester, on 12 September.

The 17-year-old, a former Huntly FC player, was airlifted to a nearby hospital where he is being treated after suffering multiple broken bones and bleeding in the brain.

His family, from Ellon in Aberdeenshire, have launched a fundraiser in an attempt to raise $50,000 towards the cost of his treatment.

College friend Benjamin Bacon, who set up the fundraising appeal, said hospital staff have fought to “keep him alive”.

He wrote: “Ethan ended up having to be airlifted to the hospital and put into ICU where they fought to keep him alive.

“The medical staff said he was suffering from a shattered right scapula, dislocated right knee, tearing of all the ligaments in his right knee, multiple fractures in the right side of his face, skull fractures as well as swelling and bleeding in the brain.

“You can only imagine the expenses being incurred by his family.

“As an international student and athlete you do get health insurance but only up to a certain amount and it’s the bare minimum they get just so they can play in their desired sport.

A fundraiser has been launched for Ethan. Supplied

Ethan’s former club, Huntly FC, said the tragedy has “blindsided us all” as they launched a plea for support.

“He embarked on a journey from Scotland to America, driven by his passion for football and education,” the club said.

“Ethan’s devoted mother rushed from Scotland to be by his side, facing unimaginable emotional turmoil as her son fought for his life miles away from home.

“We are reaching out to you, our community, for support during this challenging time. The financial burden on Ethan’s family is immense.

“This tragedy blindsided us all, and as his extended family of friends, teammates, coaches, and administrators, we want to rally behind Ethan and his family.”

You can donate to Ethan’s fundraiser here.