DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – For the first time, only on News 6, we’re hearing from a 17-year-old Special Olympics athlete who was hit by a car after running into traffic near I-95 last month.
Jauquin Perry, who has Down syndrome, was injured after his family says a disturbing encounter with a stranger triggered him to run across International Speedway Boulevard and up the on-ramp to I-95.
Perry is now out of the hospital and recovering at home. His family says they’re grateful he survived and believes he will be able to get back to doing what he loves. “I feel whole again. I didn’t feel complete before,” said Perry’s mother, Arcadia Labounty.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Perry ran into traffic on International Speedway Boulevard last month and was struck by an SUV in the northbound lanes near mile marker 261 on I-95.
One witness told troopers it happened so quickly the driver had no chance to avoid him. FHP says the driver was not at fault, and that same witness helped Perry to safety. Despite multiple injuries — including fractures to his left arm, his leg and his right shoulder blade — Perry says he’s focused on getting better.
“Yes. I can’t wait to walk again, and also eat again,” Perry said. He’s been on a liquid diet since the crash.
Perry said he hopes to be healed enough to return to school in August. “I’m trying to get healed so I can go back to school in August. That is my birthday,” Perry said. “I want to see my teacher and my classmates.”Perry’s parents say he has a long recovery ahead, but they expect he will be able to attend his Seabreeze High School graduation later this month. They also say he plans to start a special education and job placement program in August.