Devoted dad Lewis Rimmer fights for life after freak horror crash on a trip to buy a lottery ticket at Sainsbury's

A devoted dad-of-two who had taken the day off to treat his daughters to a birthday lunch has been left fighting for his life. Lewis Rimmer had popped to the supermarket when he was caught in a freak horror crash on a trip to buy a lottery ticket at a supermarket.

The 41-year-old was hit by a Range Rover which then struck the wall of a Sainsbury's store in Bolton, Greater Manchester on October 27. The garage owner was rushed to hospital where he underwent 30 hours of surgery before being placed in an induced coma.

He had taken half a day off work to treat his daughters Amelia, 10, and Maddison, five, to a birthday lunch over half term. However, a stop at the supermarket turned into what his family described as an "unimaginable tragedy".

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs. He was bailed pending further enquiries as the force's Serious Collision Unit continues its investigation and appeals for witnesses to come forward.

A GoFundMe page set up to support Lewis' wife Sarah and his daughters raised more than £94,000 with 1,600 donors. Family friend Andy Tonge, 42, said Lewis' injuries are "severe and lifechanging", but the dad has shown remarkable strength.

He said: "We already knew our Lewis was strong willed but since the incident on October 27, he has been defying medical odds. He has now undergone over 30 hours of surgery and continues to fight for his girls, Sarah, and family.

"Lewis is one of the most decent blokes I know: humble, honest, hardworking and a true friend to everyone in his extended circle. This is only the start of a very long journey; we are all overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the fundraiser and for the incredible support from the community. It's been amazing to see the north west communities pull together for one of our own."

Andy added: "For now, let's give them the space they need while they figure out what comes next, and then we can decide how best to support them moving forward.”

In an update on the GoFundMe page on Sunday (November 9), Lewis' wife Sarah shared her gratitude for the support. She said: "I just want to take a moment to say a huge thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who's kept us in their thoughts, shared our story, or donated to the page our amazing friends have set up.

"The past two weeks have been a complete blur, and we're just taking things a few hours at a time while we continue to process everything and stay strong. The love, kindness, and support we've felt has truly helped us keep going, and I know that Lewis and I will be forever grateful."

Those with information about the crash should call 0161 856 4741, quoting reference number 1481 of October 27. Information can also be shared anonymously with independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.