By NICOLE LOGGINS / Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA – Christopher Goodwin, senior at Shelby County High School, was involved in a one-car accident Feb. 29 on his way to school.

Goodwin was driving on Shelby County 55 when he hit a slick spot on the road and struck a tree.

“He wasn’t speeding, he wasn’t texting, nothing. He just hit a slick spot in the road and it sent him into a tree,” said Tom Grigsby, SCHS band director. “It was a horrific sight; I went and actually visited with him (at the scene).”

According to Grigsby, Goodwin has been involved in the band since he was in sixth grade and plays the trumpet.

“The band has a relationship unlike a regular class. We’re a very strong close-knit family,” said Grigsby.

Goodwin was trapped inside his truck for 80 minutes before emergency medical personnel could free him. He suffered severe leg injuries, breaking the majority of bones in both of his legs.

Due to the extensive injuries, Goodwin had to undergo the amputation of his left leg below the knee.

“If you had seen the truck, you could see the only reason he is still alive is because God is not finished with him yet,” Grigsby said. “I was terrified.”

Grigsby described Goodwin as “very well-liked and much loved” by everyone he knows and a “big Alabama fan.”

“He’s a very strong Christian man. I don’t know anybody who could say anything bad about him,” Grigsby said, holding back tears. “It’s a very strong family that he is a member of. I love him and I miss him.”

Goodwin is currently in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit at UAB, and is on limited visitation.

“I have spoken to his mom,” Grigsby said. “I want to go visit and so does everyone else, but we are being very careful to make sure that his family has the time they need with him.”