Overview

• Alijah Arenas, an 18-year-old top basketball prospect, was critically injured in a single-vehicle crash early Thursday involving a Tesla Cybertruck that struck a fire hydrant and tree before catching fire.
• A bystander played a heroic role in rescuing Arenas by bending a cracked window to pull him from the burning vehicle before emergency responders arrived.
• The crash led to severe smoke inhalation, prompting doctors to place Arenas in a medically induced coma as part of standard treatment protocols.
• On Friday, Arenas emerged from the coma, opened his eyes, and communicated by writing, marking a significant step in his recovery, though he remains intubated.
• The Arenas family has expressed gratitude for the medical team, the bystander’s bravery, and the community’s support, while asking for continued prayers as Alijah works toward a full recovery.