Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was severely injured in a car accident in New Hampshire on Saturday night, according to his spokesperson. The 81-year-old Giuliani was taken to the hospital with a broken vertebrae and numerous cuts and bruises, including specific injuries to his left arm and lower leg. The accident occurred when his rental car was rear-ended, said Michael Ragusa, Giuliani’s spokesperson, on Sunday.
Before the accident, Giuliani had stopped to assist a woman who was a victim of domestic violence. He had called 911 and stayed at the scene until the police arrived to ensure the woman’s safety, Ragusa, who also serves as Giuliani’s head of security, explained. The accident happened after Giuliani had returned to his car, which was then struck from behind at a high speed.
Ragusa confirmed that Giuliani, who served as mayor from 1994 to 2001, is recuperating and in high spirits. “The mayor is in great spirits. He’s a beast. He survived 9/11,” Ragusa stated.
Ragusa also mentioned that Giuliani is expected to stay in a Manchester-area hospital for another two or three days and will then need to wear a brace for his broken vertebrae. Giuliani’s son, Andrew, expressed relief that his father was doing okay and asked for prayers for his recovery.
Maria Ryan, Giuliani’s business partner and a nurse practitioner, is assisting in overseeing his care. She told reporters that Giuliani is undergoing further tests and his injuries are being stabilized.