Legendary Surfer’s Son Breathing on His Own After Being ‘Pinned’ Between 2 Cars in Accident That Left Him with ‘Unthinkable Injuries’

The family of Dakota Briley, son of legendary Pipeline surfer Shawn Briley, has shared a hopeful update following a devastating accident that left the 20-year-old hospitalized with multiple serious injuries.

“We can do nothing else but remain optimistic and hopeful, and full of prayer that this will heal, and he will be able to surf again,” said Dakota’s sister, Erin Lau, in an interview with ABC affiliate KGTV on July 1.

Dakota was hit by a car on June 14 while on Kamehameha Highway on Oahu’s North Shore. According to Lau and a GoFundMe campaign supporting his recovery, Dakota was preparing to give a surf lesson and was waxing a surfboard at the roadside when a vehicle veered across the opposite lane, striking him and pinning him against another car.

Dakota, who had returned home for summer break from Point Loma Nazarene University, sustained extensive injuries, including multiple fractures to his legs, pelvis, ribs, and skull. He also suffered significant spinal trauma, although his spine was not severed, according to updates shared by his family.

An 18-year-old was reportedly driving the car that hit Dakota, though no charges have been filed. PEOPLE has reached out to the Honolulu Police Department for further details.

A GoFundMe campaign launched in support of Dakota’s recovery has raised nearly $250,000. A June 27 update on the fundraiser page stated that he had been moved from the ICU to the trauma floor and had begun showing signs of progress: opening his eyes, moving his thumb, and responding to commands with his left arm.

Dakota was placed in a medically induced coma over the weekend and remains in critical but stable condition. His family said he is now breathing on his own, though he currently has no sensation in his lower body due to his injuries. The full impact of his head trauma remains unclear.

“There has been an outpouring of love,” Lau shared. “We are grateful for everyone’s prayers and support.”

The GoFundMe page echoes her sentiments: “He has a long journey ahead, and your support is received with deep love and gratitude.”

Dakota, much like his father Shawn, is a passionate North Shore surfer. His community and the broader surf world have rallied around him with messages of encouragement and hope as he begins the long road to recovery.