Coventry Police Recruit Hit By Car While Assisting With Another Crash

COVENTRY, RI — A Coventry police recruit is seriously injured after being hit by a car while trying to help people who had just been in another car accident in Exeter, according to police statements and a fundraiser for the man's family.

Dan Toussaint was on his way to the police academy early Monday morning when he witnessed an accident involving a car and a tractor-trailer on I-95 North near Exit 9, according to ABC6 and a MealTrain campaign for the family.

"He immediately pulled over and ran to the aid of the people who were trapped in the car," the campaign continued. "While he was helping, a third car hit the disabled car. The disabled car struck Dan and he was thrown 40 feet."

The collision caused Toussaint to suffer major injuries including a broken back in four places, the post continued. A 20-year-old Providence woman was killed at the scene, according to ABC6.

Toussaint was taken by ambulance to the hospital, where his wife, Kacia, has been by his side while family and friends care for the couple's three small children.

The digital MealTrain, which allows people to donate one meal per day to the family, has already raised $13,805, far surpassing its $500 goal.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved with this crash yesterday," the Coventry Police Department wrote in a statement Tuesday. "In particular, we are hoping and praying for a speedy recovery for our police academy recruit Dan Toussaint who put his life in danger to save others. We are proud of his heroic actions!"