A University of Albany student is in critical condition after being struck by an illegal dirt bike rider in Albany, New York. The suspect fled the scene, leaving the victim with severe injuries, including two broken bones, fractured pelvis, and five broken ribs. Now in a coma, the student is showing signs of improvement after undergoing multiple surgeries, but her recovery will be long and challenging.
Alexa Kropf, a 19-year-old University of Albany student from Long Island, is fighting for her life after being struck by an illegal dirt bike rider on April 27th. The horrifying incident has left her in a coma with severe injuries, shattering her family's world.
Her father, Jim Kropf, described the ordeal as a nightmare every parent fears. Alexa, a loving and responsible daughter, was out with friends on a Saturday night when the tragedy struck. The illegal dirt bike rider, weaving through pedestrian traffic at high speed, hit Alexa on a one-way street, throwing her into the air and leaving her severely injured on the roadway.
Alexa was rushed to Albany Medical Center Hospital in critical condition. She has since undergone two brain surgeries to remove bleeding and swelling, as well as other surgeries to repair broken bones in her leg, pelvis, and ribs. She also suffered from bruised lungs.
Jim Kropf, heartbroken and filled with anguish, described the harrowing scene. "Every single time I approach the bed to talk to her, it's so emotional," he said. "It's such torture – torture as a parent to have to do that."
Alexa's family is grateful for the medical staff's care and the support of the Ronald McDonald House, which has provided them with a place to stay during Alexa's hospitalization. However, the road ahead is arduous, as Alexa faces a long and difficult recovery.
The prevalence of illegal dirt bikes and mopeds has become a growing problem in major cities across the country, including New York City and Washington, D.C. These vehicles pose a significant safety hazard to both riders and pedestrians.
In the wake of Alexa's accident, Albany County Sheriff's Department conducted an illegal dirt bike detail, seizing 10 illegal bikes and issuing 21 traffic violations. They also made two arrests for aggravated unlicensed operation.
Albany police are still searching for the suspect, described as a male who fled the scene on the illegal dirt bike. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Albany Police Traffic and Safety Division or Capital Region Crime Stoppers.
As Alexa continues to fight for her life, her family and friends are determined to seek justice. They hope that the suspect will be apprehended and held accountable for the devastating injuries he caused.
A GoFundMe page titled "UAlbany Alexa Kropf Hit and Run" has been created to support Alexa's recovery. Donations will help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and other financial burdens the family will face during this challenging time.
Despite the overwhelming heartbreak, Alexa's family remains hopeful. They believe in her strength and resilience and know that she will emerge from this nightmare with the support of her loved ones and the community.
