Former 'The Challenge' Star Nelson Thomas Faces DWI Charges Following Near-Fatal Car Crash
The Challenge' star Nelson Thomas faces DWI charges following a life-threatening car accident in March, highlighting the serious consequences of drunk driving
Nelson Thomas. James Dimmock/Paramount +
Nelson Thomas, a 34-year-old Challenge alum, was charged with a misdemeanor DWI by the Austin Police Department on September 28, six months after his near-fatal car crash.
Thomas experienced an accident in March, wherein he was rescued from a burning vehicle by K.J. Osborn, a player for the Minnesota Vikings, along with three unidentified individuals. During the incident, Thomas sustained an ankle injury, necessitating multiple surgical interventions.
Nevertheless, seven months post-surgery, Thomas' ankle failed to heal adequately, thereby placing him at risk of potential amputation.
In an emotional Instagram video in September, Thomas tearfully announced that his bone had been rebroken and was now misaligned. Despite ongoing pain, he had initially attributed it to overworking during physical therapy and gym workouts. However, it was later discovered that the bone had not healed properly where the screws and plates were placed.
His doctor informed him that he was in the "salvage stage" and presented two options: amputation or ankle fusion surgery. Ankle fusion surgery involves fusing the ankle bone together to form one piece, primarily used to treat arthritis according to the Cleveland Clinic. Thomas expressed his intention to seek a second opinion after sharing this news.
After seeking the expertise of three specialists, Thomas announced his intention to give stem cell treatment a chance instead of undergoing another procedure, citing his apprehension. The reality star unveiled his plans to travel to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where he would receive the treatment before considering any further surgery.
"I have finally reached a decision regarding the path I will take. I want to express my gratitude to the higher power and to all those who have supported me throughout this journey," wrote Nelson in the caption of an Instagram Reel in October. "I am sincerely thankful to my esteemed physician, Dr. Akhan, and I eagerly anticipate proceeding with the procedure. Off to Mexico tomorrow! What's that saying? Viva, viva la Mexico aka Cabo ❤️."
Thomas made his reality TV debut on season 3 of MTV's Are You the One? Following that, he became a part of the Challenge franchise in 2016 and has participated in nine seasons of the competitive series. Although he made it to the finale twice, Thomas has never emerged as the winner. Notably, he currently holds the unfortunate record for the most consecutive daily challenge losses by a male contestant, totaling 54.
