Teen in ICU after moose crash
Anchorage authorities say the impact force reached 40,000 pounds, trapping the 18-year-old driver in the vehicle.
By Fatou Kim ·
Autumn Stone, an 18-year-old driver, remains in the intensive care unit in Anchorage after a collision with a moose on Monday night. Her mother, Megan Stone, reported that emergency personnel and doctors have expressed surprise at her survival. Stone stated that medical staff have consistently told the family that they are amazed the teenager is alive.
Megan Stone described the moment of the accident as her daughter was driving home. A moose entered the roadway, leaving the driver with no time to brake. Firefighters arrived to find the vehicle badly damaged with Autumn trapped inside. Multiple rescue crews used hydraulic tools known as the Jaws of Life to cut her out of the car.
Jason Dolph, an Anchorage firefighter, explained the physics of such collisions. He noted that when a car strikes a moose at highway speeds, the animal is suspended in the air. In this specific incident, the moose landed on the hood, windshield, and roof area of the vehicle. Dolph said forces of 30,000 to 40,000 pounds are typically put onto the car in these scenarios.
Cory Stantorf, a Fish and Game Biologist, said there are usually about 100 moose-vehicle collisions in the Anchorage area every year. He explained that these incidents begin to increase during this time of year. Stantorf pointed out that moose are moving because of the rut and following cows. Additionally, drivers are navigating pitch-black morning commutes without snow to provide contrast, which reduces reaction time.
Stone said on Wednesday that her daughter was still in the ICU and expected to remain there for several days. She reported that Autumn has suffered some brain bruising, lacerations, and a broken hand. Stone added that her daughter did not appear to have any catastrophic injuries.
Megan Stone said she has seen pictures of the wreck and feels relief that her daughter survived. She described it as horrifying to view the photos but expressed gratitude for being able to put the severity of the situation into context. The family noted how close they came to losing their daughter in the crash.
