A devastating crash in Detroit has not only left a man and his son reeling from their injuries, but also dealt a significant blow to their livelihood. On July 7, Raphael Williams and his son were violently thrown from their food truck, Unity Catering RBG, when a pickup truck collided with the parked food vehicle on Livernois Avenue near Glendale Avenue, as per ClickOnDetroit. The incident, which was captured on nearby security video, resulted in Raphael suffering severe injuries that necessitated an eight-day hospital stay and three surgeries. His son escaped with less severe physical trauma, walking away with a scraped knee.
Raphael's son, Jermaine, described a harrowing scene to FOX 2 Detroit, recalling the moment he thought his father had sustained life-threatening injuries. "I was terrified because I thought my dad was gone. He had blood dripping down his face and he was groaning," he said. Meanwhile, security footage indicated the pickup truck made no attempt to brake before impact, suggesting a lack of attention from the driver who is as yet unidentified in regards to injury status.
Williams, who has run Unity Catering RBG for four years, expressed his passion for his work and the importance of the food truck for his living: "I love cooking for people, it’s a passion for me," he told ClickOnDetroit.
Due to missed insurance payments, any repairs for the damaged truck, which are estimated to cost around $30,000, are not covered. The father and business owner detailed the need for extensive repairs including plumbing, electrical work, and propane system to FOX 2 Detroit, and revealed that there was launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds needed.
Residents of the neighborhood expressed concerns over traffic safety in the area where the accident occurred. According to a WXYZ report, locals such as Brendley Caray note that the actual driving speeds often far exceed the 30 miles per hour speed limit on that stretch of Livernois Avenue. While the Detroit Police Department has arrested one person in connection with the crash, the investigation into the cause is ongoing. Despite the setbacks, Williams is determined to return to his usual spots, including Campus Martius and Spirit Plaza, as he recuperates. Both his physical recovery and the restoration of the food truck are being supported by funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign, which aims to assist with both the vehicle repair and his medical bills.
