Magna teen hospitalized after car surfing accident before homecoming

Ava Broadhead, a 15-year-old sophomore at Cypress High School in Magna, Utah, is currently hospitalized in critical condition following a car surfing accident that occurred on Wednesday night at Magna Regional Park. The incident took place around 9 p.m., shortly after the homecoming parade was canceled due to poor air quality. Ava's mother, Kandis Broadhead, received a call from her daughter's friends informing her of the accident, which led to Ava being rushed to Primary Children's Hospital. Car surfing, a dangerous trend where individuals ride on the outside of a moving vehicle, has seen a resurgence in popularity, often fueled by social media. Sgt. Aymee Race from the Unified Police Department noted that this trend has been prevalent since the 1980s and has re-emerged in recent years. Kandis Broadhead expressed her concern over the increasing number of similar incidents, sharing that she has received numerous messages from others who have experienced traumatic brain injuries from car surfing. Ava is currently in a medically induced coma, allowing her brain to rest as she fights for her life. The unpredictable nature of injuries sustained from such activities can lead to severe consequences, as highlighted by the experiences of others who have faced similar situations. The police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with reckless behavior and the impact of social media trends on youth. The community is rallying around Ava and her family during this difficult time, hoping for her recovery and raising awareness about the risks of car surfing.