Jacob DeLeon

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A Virginia man is fighting to recover after suffering catastrophic injuries in a crash that killed his friend and left several others hurt.

Jacob DeLeon was among six people involved in the Oct. 25 crash caused by a drunk driver, according to loved ones, who described the accident as “fatal” and said it claimed the life of his friend, Anthony Pike.

DeLeon, an engineer known among his friends for his drive and work ethic, was left with life-altering injuries that have required extensive surgeries, therapy, and rehabilitation.

GoFundMe

“Jacob sustained serious, life-altering injuries that require extensive medical care and rehabilitation,” friends wrote in a GoFundMe campaign set up for him. 

“His injuries are complex, including a severe hip break and fracture, a broken pelvis, and multiple breaks and fractures to his right wrist, along with other significant bumps and bruises.”

According to friends, DeLeon remains in intensive rehabilitation, working to regain his strength and mobility as of Friday, Nov. 7. 

Friends say the short-term goal is to help him recover enough to return home, where he can continue his long-term treatment supported by family.

“Our immediate and most critical goal is to get him strong enough to safely travel back home to Virginia Beach, where he can continue his long-term recovery supported by his family and community,” the organizers wrote.

DeLeon’s friends described him as hardworking, passionate, and deeply loved by those who know him.

"He pours his passion and skill into his job and is passionate about his many hobbies,” loved ones said. “We want to do everything we can to help him successfully navigate this recovery so he can eventually return to the career and life he loves.”

Photos shared by his loved ones show DeLeon in a hospital bed, his arm heavily bandaged, and later sitting up in recovery. Other images capture him smiling with friends before the crash — a reflection, they said, of the life and energy he’s determined to regain.

GoFundMe

Those close to DeLeon have described him as the kind of friend who always showed up — thoughtful, grounded, and driven. The crash that took his friend’s life, they said, has changed everything for those who knew both men.

"The financial burden resulting from this tragedy is overwhelming for Jacob and his family," Celia Terreri said. "We are kindly asking for any contribution you can make to help cover the essential costs of his recovery and transition home." 

The fundraiser was launched to assist with the costs of his ongoing care and specialized medical transport back to Virginia Beach. Organizers emphasized that the financial burden has been overwhelming for his family as they focus on his recovery.

“The toll of the accident has been immense, leaving him with severe injuries and a long, difficult road ahead,” friends wrote.

Anyone wishing to support DeLeon’s recovery can visit the verified fundraiser titled “Support Jacob’s Journey to Healing and Recovery,” which has raised more than $10,000 in just one day.

GoFundMe

Before the crash, DeLeon was known for his dedication to his work and the people around him — traits that friends say are now fueling his fight to heal.

"We want to do everything we can to help him successfully navigate this recovery so he can eventually return to the career and life he loves," organizers wrote. 

"If you are unable to donate, please know that sharing this campaign on social media, via email, or with your community is a huge help and deeply appreciated."