Partner of man burned by falling helicopter calls experience 'life changing'

Richard Newman's partner Daniel Jung and doctors speak about his condition at Harborview.



SEATTLE –  The driver burned when a news helicoptercrashed on top of his car continues improving at Harborview Medical Center after suffering burns over 20 percent of his body

Richard Newman’s partner told reporters Tuesday that the experience had been life changing for Richard and the entire family.  Daniel Jung said they had read every single email and car sent by the public offering Richard well wishes and support.  He said the experience has inspired their family to give back to the community.

Public Facebook photo of Richard "Dickie" Newman



As for Newman’s recovery, doctors said he was progressing well.  One medical technique that has worked in his case has been the use of pig skin over severely burned areas of skin.  Doctors said the animal skin allowed Newman’s own skin the ability to heal more quickly and completely.  That pig skin was subsequently removed after doctors determined it had done it’s work.

Newman was severely injured when his car was hit by a KOMO-TV news helicopter that crashed in March. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition after the crash, but later upgraded to serious.

A part-time disease intervention specialist at Public Health of Seattle and King County, Newman was seen rolling in the grass to put out the fire on his body caused by the crash.
Newman is an avid softball player in Seattle’s gay softball community.  He has played for the Seattle Phoenix in the Emerald City Softball Association.

What remains of the red car Newman escaped from with severe burns.