COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa [KETV] — A Council Bluffs native and veteran remains in the hospital in critical condition after a driver hit him in the parking lot of a gas station on Wednesday. Council Bluffs police are investigating the hit-and-run that has left 68-year-old Thomas Sayles with several injuries. The Sayles family describes their father and brother as the kindest man anyone could ever meet and someone who drops everything to help anyone.

They say he is a veteran and was proudly part of the Marine Corps. The family said they are still very shaken up and focused on doing anything they can to help their father through his recovery process. They said it was shocking when they received the news of what had happened, and they did not find out until Thursday morning, about 12 hours after the hit-and-run.

Veteran Tom Sayles

Chelsea Sayles Dubois, Thomas Sayles’ daughter, said her father has several brain bleeds, a fractured skull that has resulted in nerve damage and partial paralysis of his face, and several bruises and cuts. The family said they are grateful for every good Samaritan and first responder who helped their father.

According to court documents, there have been two charges officially filed against the driver. One is for leaving the scene of an accident while failing to provide aid or information, and one is for failure to provide proof of financial liability. The Sayles family said their father’s medical bills are already mounting, and when he is released from the hospital, he will need 24/7 care. If you would like to donate to the Thomas Sayles and his recovery process, click here.