After being struck by a vehicle and left for dead on an Ohio roadside, a 13-year-old pianist has defied medical expectations with a recovery that has stunned doctors and brought a community together in celebration. The teenager, who suffered severe brain injuries and multiple fractures, walked back into his church just weeks after the incident and demonstrated his remarkable progress by performing on the piano.
Struck while riding his bike
Richard Alexander Medina, known as Alex to his loved ones, was cycling near Lefferson Park in Middletown on April 10 when tragedy struck. The teen was simply making a quick trip to purchase a beverage when a vehicle collided with him. A parent of one of Alex’s friends witnessed the collision, turned around to see the boy airborne, and watched in horror as the driver fled the scene without rendering aid or checking on the injured child.
Suspect arrested and charged
Thanks to witness descriptions of the vehicle, law enforcement officials successfully located the driver. Authorities arrested 35-year-old Thomas Harris, who now faces charges including aggravated vehicular assault, fleeing the scene, and operating a vehicle while impaired—his second such offense within a decade. The suspect had allegedly been driving under the influence when he struck the young cyclist and made the decision to leave without stopping.
Severe injuries and uncertain prognosis
Emergency responders transported Alex to Atrium Medical Center before he was airlifted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for specialized care. When his mother, Elsie Thomas, arrived at the hospital, she found her son intubated and fighting for survival. Medical scans revealed multiple brain hemorrhages along with jaw fractures—injuries that painted a grim picture of his chances.
“For a moment we almost thought we were going to lose him and God did his work, he kept him here with us, which I’m blessed, because no parent should have to bury their child,” said Thomas.
Remarkable return to the piano
Just over two weeks following the accident, Alex entered Stratford Heights Church of God in Middletown to find the sanctuary filled with supporters. Teachers, family members, and friends had gathered to welcome him home. In a powerful demonstration of his recovery, the young musician sat at the piano and began playing for the assembled crowd.
Alex, who plays four different instruments and taught himself two without formal instruction, found that his musical abilities remained intact despite the trauma his body had endured.
“Still know how to play fast, yeah, it’s impressive that I still know how,” said Medina.
His mother described witnessing the moment as an overwhelming experience. “It’s the happiest moment of my life, besides when he was born,” said Thomas. “Losing him is not an option, it’s not an option.”
Pastor Brian Little characterized the teen’s recovery in simple terms: “He’s a true walking miracle.”
Continued recovery and community support
While Alex’s progress has been extraordinary, his family acknowledges that significant challenges remain ahead. The teenager will require ongoing physical therapy and speech therapy as part of his rehabilitation process. Throughout this journey, the Middletown community has rallied around the family with support and encouragement.
“To just tell everyone how we’re happy with all they did, teachers, family, they all came together,” said Thomas.
