A heartbroken family is asking for prayers after 11-year-old Oliver Holland was pinned under a helicopter that crashed on Huntington Beach, California, on October 11.
The helicopter reportedly malfunctioned mid-flight before spiraling down and crashing into palm trees. Five people were injured, including Oliver, who suffered life-threatening injuries—a collapsed lung and brain bleed.
Bystanders rushed to free him from the wreckage, as shown in dramatic footage from the scene. A GoFundMe launched by his sister, Madeline, says Oliver remains hospitalized and undergoing surgery.
The helicopter, piloted by Eric Nixon of Redlands, was part of the upcoming Cars and Copters event. Nixon and four others were also injured but are expected to recover.
In an update, Oliver’s family said his condition is slowly improving. Nearly $113,000 of the $120,000 fundraising goal has been raised to cover his medical expenses, as both parents have taken time off work.
The family thanked supporters and asked for continued prayers for Oliver’s recovery.