The parents of the University of Miami student who lost a lower leg to an explosion in Central Park expressed their gratitude Saturday to the emergency responders and doctors who helped their son survive the ordeal.
Kevin and Carol Golden, of Fairfax County, Virginia, issued a statement "in response to the tremendous outpouring of support for our son, Connor Golden."
The couple said their son, who turned 19 on Saturday, underwent a second surgery on Wednesday to complete the below-the-knee amputation.
"He is in good condition and as soon as his doctors say he can be released, he plans to return to Northern Virginia for follow-up treatment and recovery," they said.
Golden's leg was severely injured on July 3 when he stepped on some explosive material that police suspect was left behind by someone attempting to make homemade fireworks. Investigators said they believe that whoever made the explosive had no intent to injury anyone.
The NYPD is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the person responsible for the explosive, the Goldens said.
The Goldens thanked the doctors and nurses at Bellevue Hospital Center where their son is being treated, as well as city's first responders and "two unidentified good Samaritans" who aided their son.
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"They quickly applied a tourniquet to Connor's leg using a men's clothing belt worn by one of Connor's friends. Their bravery and clear-headedness in a moment of crisis may well have saved Connor's life."
