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$5,400 raised for local paramedic injured by suspected drunk driver

Posted at 11:24 PM, Sep 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-25 01:07:10-04

HOLLAND, Mich. — A fundraiser was held this weekend to aid in the recovery efforts for an EMT hurt in a crash back in August.

Tim Hoffman was one of three people injured in a head on crash along 141st Avenue and Blue Star Highway in Allegan County back in August.  Investigators say the ambulance Hoffman was riding in was hit by a suspected drunk driver.

Hoffman, an 11-year veteran of American Medical Response, suffered severe head injuries that left him hospitalized in critical condition. Investigators say Hoffman was in the back of the ambulance at the time of the crash.

Firefighters and other officials gathered to wash dozens of cars at the Kollen Fire Station in Holland on Saturday to raise money for Hoffman.

"We’re part of a great team that works together on a regular basis to deliver services to our community," said Chris Tinney, with the Holland Department of Public Safety.
"When one of our team members has a bad day, we want to make sure we try to help them out."

Kevin Jongekryg (left), Tim Hoffman. (undated Facebook courtesy photos)

Kevin Jongekryg (left), Tim Hoffman. (undated Facebook courtesy photos)

Organizers say Hoffman still has a long road ahead.

"I think it’s great for the community I think more people hear about it and can pray for him," said Linda Allen, who's a retaliative of Hoffman's.

The car wash raised more than $5400 and officials say it's four times what they typically raise at these events.

Paramedic Kevin Jongekryg was also hurt in the crash. He was treated and released shortly after the incident.