NC State community rallies behind student seriously injured in Hilton Head hit and run
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Friends and fraternity brothers of NC State sophomore Brayden Bulger have been working around the clock to support him as he recovers from severe injuries after a hit-and-run crash in South Carolina.
Bulger was struck by a vehicle early Sunday morning while crossing a street during a fraternity formal in Hilton Head, according to his friends.
He remains hospitalized with his family around him and faces a long road to recovery from a traumatic brain injury.
Those close to him say it will be some time before he can return to his studies at NC State.
"It's hard coming back to Raleigh," said Jackson Weglarz, a friend.
Weglarz said the incident happened as a group of fraternity members crossed the street and saw a vehicle speeding far beyond the speed limit.
"He flew probably 30 feet," Weglarz said.
Weglarz said the driver fled the scene after hitting Bulger. Fraternity brothers immediately rushed to help and sought assistance from nearby officers.
"We went over there, flipped him over, saw a few cops in the parking lot, ran over to them, they came running over, and then the ambulance was there within a few minutes," Weglarz said.
Bulger was severely injured, and his fraternity brothers stayed at the hospital until his family arrived. Friends say his condition has improved, but his recovery is expected to be lengthy.
Back at NC State, friends have been rallying in support, describing Bulger as a positive force in their lives.
"He's one of the smartest guys I know, always pushing everyone to be better," Weglarz said.
"One of the nicest guys I know," added another friend, Gavin Laton.
Friends are also sharing Bulger's story in hopes of identifying the driver. The South Carolina Highway Patrol has released an image of the suspect vehicle, described as a silver or gray SUV.
"I mean, honestly, I don't know. I don't know how you live with yourself," Weglarz said. "A group of guys were at the scene, and I mean, we didn't hear any brakes, nothing. The driver just drove off."
Support has poured in through an online fundraiser to help with medical bills. Additional fundraising is planned at the North Street Beer Station on Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh, where Bulger works, with a fundraiser on Friday starting at 5 p.m.
"Initially, after I hired him, so many people would come up to me and be like, Oh, I'm so glad that you hired (him). Right? And like, so he's definitely loved in the community of NC State," said Hope Levinson of the North Street Beer Station.
Levinson said Bulger's absence is deeply felt.
"We miss you. He really is a blessing to have around. And I just hope he gets better," she said.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
