Friends of a Yelm mechanic who was injured by a drunk driver on Feb. 3 have started a fundraiser to help cover his medical costs.
Dave Bush, 57, of Spanaway, was involved in a head-on collision with a drunk driver on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
The at-fault driver, identified by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) as Kara K. Burmaz, 24, of Graham, is facing possible DUI and vehicular assault charges.
WSP was notified of the crash at approximately 6:14 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
Burmaz was reportedly driving a white 1998 Toyota Camry southbound in the northbound lanes of state Route 507 when, at milepost 26, she struck a northbound red 1995 Ford Mustang driven by Bush head-on.
Both drivers were transported to Providence St. Peter Hospital for medical treatment, according to WSP.
Bush’s friends reported that he was ultimately airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle with broken ribs, a punctured lung and a shattered pelvis.
He had a successful surgery for his pelvis on Feb. 5, and is facing six to 12 weeks of recovery, not including rehabilitation.
Bush is a “fixture” at O’Reilly Auto Parts in Yelm, and “is well known in the area for his automotive knowledge, genuine customer service and his kindness,” according to the friends who organized his fundraiser on a crowdfunding platform.
“All of your support and prayers are greatly appreciated,” fundraiser organizers stated in the latest update on Bush’s condition. “Thank you on behalf of Dave's family and friends for donating, sharing, and praying.”
The fundraiser had raised $270 of a $2,200 goal as of Friday afternoon.
For more information or to donate, visit https://gofund.me/4635daa11
