Florida Gators center struck by alleged drunk driver remains hospitalized

By Adam Silverstein
April 14, 2017
Florida Gators center struck by alleged drunk driver remains hospitalized
Football

Image Credit: Tony McCoy / Facebook

Updated on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

Florida Gators redshirt sophomore center T.J. McCoy was struck by an alleged drunk driver Thursday morning while riding a scooter with his girlfriend and remained hospitalized at least overnight.

McCoy’s father, Tony McCoy, confirmed as much via his Facebook page where he notes that T.J. “had been in a hit and run accident and was found on the side of the road. It turned out that a drunk driver hit TJ and his girlfriend at a stop light after they left the library and fled the scene.”

On Saturday, T.J. McCoy shared via Twitter that he suffered no serious injuries and plans to attend church with his family on Sunday.

“I thank God that my girlfriend, myself and the person that hit us were not seriously injured,” he wrote. “I’m alive, I have no broken bones or fractures. I do have road burns and I’m a little sore, but I’m resting and getting stronger.”

OnlyGators.com has been unable to obtain the restricted accident report at this time but confirmed that Samantha Meldrem, 22, was arrested Friday morning and charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for driving under the influence with property damage.

From pictures posted by Tony McCoy on Facebook, the son appeared to be in good spirits, smiling surrounded by his family. The father also took time out to thank the Gators coaching staff for rushing to his son’s aid after learning of the accident.

Seems like within minutes after we received the call, his Offensive Line coach was in the hospital with him keeping us updated.

I’m truly grateful for ALL the staff here at Shands and the way that they have looked after my son. I’m grateful for the ENTIRE Coaching staff at Florida. Listen, anyone can make their mouth say that they care, but this coaching staff here at Flordia showed that they mean what they say when they say FAMILY. Mr. George [Wynn] who is head of football operations coming and sitting with my wife and daughter meant a lot to me and my family.

We have been overshadowed with love, calls, prayers and support by everyone from Coach [Jim McElwain] and his entire staff. As a former Gator I’m grateful for the level of excellence and care that has been shown to my family.

T.J. McCoy started the final four games of the 2016 season for Florida and surprised with his tremendous play late in the campaign. He is expected to remain the Gators’ starting center in 2017 assuming he is able to recover from his accident in time for the start of the season.

Inquiries sent to Florida for comment were not returned Friday evening.

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