NJ 13-Year-Old In Critical Condition After Bike Crash With Car

CLIFTON, NJ - A Passaic County middle schooler is in critical condition after being hit by a car over the weekend, according to a GoFundMe page set up by family friends.

Aqel Khalifeh, 13, of Clifton, was hit by a car while riding his bicycle in town on Sunday, resulting in a serious injury that placed him in a coma, the GoFundMe page reads. Khalifeh is currently in St. Joseph Hospital in Paterson where he has “suffered internal bleeding to the brain and stomach and has already undergone multiple surgeries.”

Clifton Detective Lt. Robert Bracken told NJ.com that the collision took place on Fifth Avenue and West Second Street, when Khalifeh struck a vehicle and was thrown from his bike.

No charges have been filed against the driver, who stopped to render aid to the teen, Bracken told the outlet. An investigation is ongoing.

“We are praying that Aqel will recover. Aqel's recovery is going to be a long and challenging journey, not only for him but also for his family who are dealing with this traumatic incident,” the fundraiser continues.

“The medical bills will rapidly accumulate and the family will be at his bedside and will need help managing the expenses.”

As of Wednesday morning, the fundraiser has garnered over $80,000. You can view the GoFundMe page here.