BMX rider TJ Lavin remains in medically induced coma at Las Vegas hospital

BMX athlete TJ Lavin remains in a Las Vegas hospital following an accident during qualifying at the Dew Tour Championships on Thursday which left him critically injured.

ESPN.com reported Monday that Lavin is in a medically induced coma at University Medical Center but was able to move his hands early Saturday.

A text message sent Saturday by Lavin's mother, Barbara, to her son's friend and Dew Tour BMX course builder Tim Hall said: "Neuro came and spoke to TJ. He moved his hands around and he gave the docs a thumbs-up. He is not conscious. He's back on sedation to rest and minimize brain swelling."

A Dew Tour spokeswoman said that, Lavin, 33, was wearing a helmet when the accident happened Thursday night. Lavin was attempting a maneuver that entailed becoming temporarily unseated from his bicycle, failed to get his feet back on the pedals before landing and was knocked unconscious on impact.

The Las Vegas native sustained brain injuries, an orbital fracture on his eye and a fractured right wrist. Contrary to earlier reports, Lavin did not suffer any broken ribs.

"TJ is an important member of the Dew Tour family -- the Tour, athletes and the action sports industry are all keeping him in our thoughts and prayers," Dew Tour officials said in a statement.

-- Kelly Burgess
twitter.com/latimesoutposts

Photo: TJ Lavin appears on stage at an MTV event. Credit: Stephen Lovekin / Getty Images

Related:

BMX star TJ Lavin in critical condition after accident during Dew Tour event qualifying

 

Comments

[Joe]

Wishing you a speedy and healthy recovery TJ!

[Shellene]

Prayers for a speedy recovery for you!

[Brenda Strickland]

TJ Me and my family have been watching you for years. We have seen all the M.T.V Battles and you are a great person and our prays are with you. Get well as soon as possible, and we will be thinking about you each and every day.