Family races to German Hospital bedside of Scotland fan injured in serious crash

The family of Gary Elis, a 23-year-old Scotland fan from Dundee, has rushed to his hospital bedside following a serious car crash in Germany.

Elis was among six individuals injured in a head-on collision involving two cars near Weeze Airport just after midnight on Thursday, June 13. The group had been travelling to the Euros in a hired Citroen C3 when the accident occurred.

Reports indicate that the Citroen C3, occupied by Elis and his friends, collided head-on with an S-class Mercedes.

The impact of the crash left Elis and another passenger, aged 23, seriously injured. The 25-year-old Scottish driver and three other male passengers, all aged 23, sustained minor injuries. The driver of the Mercedes, a German national from Düsseldorf, also suffered minor injuries.

Emergency services, including four ambulances, responded swiftly to the scene early on Friday morning. Photographs from the site of the crash depict multiple emergency crews attending to casualties both on the road and on the grass verge. Notably, one of the injured fans was seen wearing a kilt and tartan hat, a testament to the group’s Scottish roots.

The initial investigation by German police suggests that the Citroen C3 was travelling on the wrong side of the road at the time of the accident.

Gary’s mother, Mandy Coleman, shared her anguish on social media, stating: “Our son has been involved in an accident in Germany and we are currently making arrangements to get out there to be with him.” Mandy spoke with The Courier, promising to keep family and friends updated as soon as they arrived at the hospital in Germany.

The news of the crash has rippled through the tight-knit community of Dundee, where Gary is known and loved. Friends and relatives have expressed their shock and concern, rallying support for the Elis family during this challenging time.

As Gary’s condition remains uncertain, the Elis family, alongside the families of the other injured individuals, faces an anxious wait. The accident has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous trip to the Euros, a testament to the unforeseen challenges and dangers that can arise during travel.

Authorities in Germany are continuing their investigation into the crash, aiming to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident. In the meantime, the primary focus remains on the recovery and well-being of the injured parties.

The outpouring of support from the Scottish and broader football community has been a source of comfort for the families affected. Messages of solidarity and hope flood social media, as friends and strangers alike offer their prayers and best wishes for Gary and his companions.

As the Elis family remains at Gary’s side in Germany, the thoughts of many are with them, hoping for positive news and a swift recovery for all involved.