NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. — A 17-year-old New Kent High School basketball player is recovering after a serious crash on Route 60 near Providence Forge Monday evening.
Kris Leeper lost control of his vehicle around 6:30 p.m., resulting in significant damage to the car. The Virginia State Police are investigating the cause of the crash.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, and Leeper was airlifted to a Richmond hospital. He was conscious and able to contact his parents before being extricated from the wreckage.
Authorities reported that Leeper was wearing a seatbelt, which he credits with saving his life. “It does look crazy,” he said, reflecting on the wreckage. Local basketball coach Garrett Ross noted that witnesses did not report speeding or signs of braking prior to the collision.
Leeper underwent multiple surgeries since the incident and is currently focusing on recovery. His family expressed gratitude for his survival, with his father noting the journey from the crash scene to the hospital.
Leeper has received considerable support from the community and hopes to return to basketball soon. He emphasized the importance of wearing seatbelts to others.
This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom with information.