Miami Dolphins defensive lineman Kendrick Norton was involved in a serious car wreck early Thursday morning in Miami that resulted in the amputation of his left arm.
NFL reports:
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles accident report, at approximately 1:18 a.m., Norton was driving a black 2017 Ford F250 on westbound State Road 836. His vehicle, for unknown reasons, crashed into a concrete barrier wall and his vehicle overturned on to its roof. Miami Dade Fire Rescue transported Norton to Ryder Trauma Center.
CBS Miami reported that Kendrick’s girlfriend was also in the vehicle at the time of the crash, but her injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Another vehicle, a gray 2015 Maserati sedan, was involved in the crash, but the driver did not sustain any injuries.
A rescue crew was forced to amputate Kendrick’s arm in order to extract him from the site.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Kendrick was still hospitalized, but his injuries were not life-threatening.
Officials have not yet identified any cause for the crash.
NFL agent Malki Kawa also confirmed the news over Twitter.
Kendrick’s mother, Tess Stephens, thanked supporters in a Friday morning Facebook post.
“It is not possible for me to individually respond to all the messages, texts, calls, etc. But my family and I welcome and appreciate all the love & support,” Mrs. Stephens wrote.
“KJ is a fighter!!” she continued. “And he will fight through this! Yes he did lose his arm but he’s got his life! We ask for respect and privacy during this time for him to heal and grieve for he has lost so that he can get up and fight for all the many blessings he still has and WILL have! My family & I THANK U all and love u all!”
The Dolphins released a statement on Thursday morning that read in full: “We were made aware this morning of a serious car accident involving Kendrick Norton. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kendrick and his family during this time.”
Kendrick Norton, who played college football for Miami, was selected in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. The 22-year-old was subsequently waived, cut and then added to the Panthers‘ practice squad. On Dec. 19, Norton was signed by the Dolphins.
Prayers up to Kendrick for a speedy recovery.
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