A truck driver’s company has launched a fundraiser to support his recovery after he was brutally assaulted at a service area in Illinois late last week.
The assault took place on the night of Friday, August 7, at a rest stop in Effingham, Illinois.
According to MyStateLine, truck driver Corey Clayton was heading to Rockford, Illinois, with a load when he stopped at a rest area to spend the night. There, Clayton was attacked by several people and lost consciousness during the assault. Another truck driver witnessed the incident and drove the attackers away. Emergency services arrived, and Clayton was quickly airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.
According to reports, Clayton is suffering from a brain hemorrhage and will need facial reconstructive surgery as a result of the attack. He is still in his first year as a long-haul truck driver.
Now, the company Clayton was driving for, Meiborg Companies, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help fund his treatment and recovery.
“Corey Clayton was the victim of a violent and senseless attack at a rest stop in Effingham, Illinois,” wrote Meiborg Companies. “His injuries were so severe that he had to be airlifted by helicopter to a hospital, where he is now recovering.”
“Corey is more than just a truck driver. He is a valued member of our Meiborg family, a hardworking professional, and someone who has always been there for others. Now, he needs our support,” the post continues.
“As Corey embarks on this difficult journey ahead, he will be unable to drive or work while he recovers. The funds raised will help support Corey’s family during this time and cover the medical expenses associated with such serious injuries, hospitalization, and surgeries,” reads the GoFundMe campaign.
As of 7:40 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, the campaign had raised $12,803 of its $14,000 goal.
The Effingham Police Department states that it cannot yet comment on the incident and that the investigation is still ongoing, according to Rockford News First.
