Nevada Firefighter Struck by Car, Seriously Injured While Collecting Money for Muscular Dystrophy

NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. (AP) -- A North Las Vegas firefighter suffered serious injuries when he was hit by a car while collecting donations for the annual Muscular Dystrophy Association fundraiser, officers said.

Rafael Gomez, 32, was standing on Cheyenne Avenue when a car hit him Saturday. He was taken to University Medical Center.

''He's banged up pretty bad, but nothing life-threatening,'' said Luis Olmos, Gomez's cousin and a fellow North Las Vegas firefighter.

Firefighters across the nation take part in the fundraiser held in conjunction with Jerry Lewis' Labor Day telethon. They usually collect donations by roaming intersections with rubber boots.

North Las Vegas Fire Chief Al Gillespie said his department will review boot drive practices and make changes if necessary. But the fundraiser is important, he said.

Police said Gomez was standing in either the inside through lane or left-turn lane of westbound Cheyenne when the accident occurred.

The impact shattered the passenger side of the car's windshield.

The driver tried to flee, but motorists blocked his escape and held him until police arrived. The driver, whose name wasn't released, could face charges depending on blood test results, police said.

The 4:20 p.m. accident is under investigation.