Community

Supporters send donations, prayers for victim of Northampton crash

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An 18-year-old Eastport man was seriously injured when he lost control of his car on icy roads and crashed into a utility pole in Northampton Friday morning. But while the teen remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital, his friends, family, church and community are rallying behind him.

An online fundraiser for Michael Einfeldt — who is an active member of the Eastport Bible Church’s youth group — has raised nearly $7,000 in just one day, with more than 100 people donating to help the Einfeldt family and praying for his recovery.

“Michael spent so much of his high school years as an important part of this ministry,” wrote fundraiser organizer Lisa Berg-Anderson. “He dedicated his time to loving and serving so many. He truly has let God use him to have a huge impact in the lives of so many. But now is the time that he needs our help.”

Mr. Einfeldt was headed north on County Road 51 just before 7 a.m. when he hit a section of black ice and smashed into a pole, Southampton Town police said.Riverhead volunteer firefighters helped free Mr. Einfeldt from the wreck and Flanders-Northampton ambulance volunteers treated him at the scene. Mr. Einfeldt was airlifted to Stony Brook University hospital where he underwent immediate surgery to save his life, Ms. Berg-Anderson wrote.

“He’s since undergone a second surgery and remains in critical condition,” she said, noting the teen lost a lot of blood and suffered internal injuries. “As Michael’s body begins to heal from his surgeries the doctors will be able to learn the full extent of the head injuries that Michael also suffered.”

As Mr. Einfeldt recovers, friends are paying tribute to the teen on social media and donating to the fundraiser.

“So sad this had to happen to such an amazing young guy,” wrote one supporter online. “May God be with you all.”