Actor and stuntwoman Carrie Bernans, who performed stunts for Dora Milaje in the ‘Black Panther’ and the two final Avengers movies, was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident on New Year’s Day. Bernans, 29, recently became a mother and was not with her baby at the time of the incident. She is currently in the hospital and has sustained several fractures, broken bones, and chipped teeth. Her mother, Patricia Lee, took to Instagram to update fans and followers on her daughter’s condition.
According to police, the incident happened around 1:30 am in Manhattan on Monday when a driver crashed into an outdoor dining shed at Chirp, a Peruvian restaurant. He then backed up and ran into another vehicle, injuring several civilians and police officers. Bernans was struck by the driver’s vehicle and ended up getting pinned underneath the food stand.
The ‘Black Panther’ actor and stuntwoman suffered multiple injuries from the crash, including a fractured jaw and head. She is undergoing surgery for the injuries and is in critical condition, but her mother says she is expected to make a full recovery. “Carrie is so fortunate to be alive despite her extensive injuries,” Lee wrote in an Instagram post. “She has a few broken bones, fractures, and chipped teeth, but she’s holding on to an immense sense of gratitude for life itself.”
Bernans’ mother said the actress is not yet able to speak but has been taking medication to subdue pain between surgeries. The family also launched a GoFundMe to raise money for the actor’s medical expenses and other bills.
In her post, Lee shared graphic images from the traumatic incident and asked for prayers and well wishes for her daughter. “She’s in so much pain, can’t answer calls at this moment but appreciates all the messages of love & support,” she wrote. The post went on to ask for donations to help her daughter pay for her upcoming medical bills, as well as for teeth reconstruction, physical and mental therapy, child care, and groceries.
Carrie is a dynamic and multi-talented individual with an unbreakable spirit. She was born in Hopewell, Virginia, and lived a nomadic lifestyle as her parents split up early. Her childhood travels led to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and influenced her unique storytelling. Her career is a testament to her grit and perseverance.
Bernans was praised for her performance in ‘Black Panther,’ where she played one of the Dora Milaje, a group of women warriors who are the backbone of the African superhero film. She has also worked on the recent movie musical version of ‘The Color Purple’ and various other film and television projects.
The actress and stuntwoman will be a part of the upcoming third and fourth installments of the Marvel franchise. She is also set to appear in a reboot of ‘Paradise City.’ The 29-year-old recently became a mother, and her young son was not with her when the traumatic accident occurred.
