'Walk for Peace' monk recovering from surgery after accident in Liberty County, journey to continue

DAYTON, Texas - At least two Buddhist monks were hospitalized Wednesday after they were reportedly struck by a vehicle along Highway 90 in Liberty County.

As of Thursday morning, it was reported one monk underwent surgery for their injuries, but is now recovering. Several others were treated for minor injuries.

‘Walk for Peace’ monks struck by vehicle

Auto-pedestrian accident on US 90 at Tollway 99 (Photo credit: Dayton Volunteer Fire Department)

What we know:

An accident was reported Wednesday night along eastbound Highway 90 near Tollway 99, according to the Dayton Volunteer Fire Department.

Dayton Police say the monks were walking along 99 with a vehicle that was following them. A second vehicle allegedly struck the first vehicle, causing that first vehicle to hit the monks.

One of the monks was reportedly flown to a hospital, and another was taken by an ambulance. According to the Vindicator, their injuries are said to be non-life threatening.

According to The Vindicator, the victims were Buddhist monks from Fort Worth who are participating in a "Walk for Peace." The newspaper says they spoke to the monks less than an hour before the accident.

The monks are traveling from their North Texas temple to Washington D.C. to "promote peace and mindfulness," based on a report from Buddhistdoor Global.

After the accident, The Vindicator shared video on social media of the monks continuing their journey with Dayton Police as their escorts.

What we don't know:

It's not clear if any charges will be filed. No one involved has been identified at this time.

The conditions of the drivers are not available.

What they're saying:

This updated statement came in at 11:15 a.m. on Thursday:

The Walk For Peace Team is grateful to share an important update regarding last night’s accident near Dayton, Texas. The monk who underwent surgery earlier today is now out of surgery, and the procedure went well. He is currently in recovery and under close medical care. The remaining monks sustained minor injuries and, with steadfast determination, will continue the Walk For Peace journey. We extend our deepest gratitude for the compassion, prayers, and warm wishes sent from communities across the country and around the world. Your support brings strength and comfort to the Sangha during this difficult moment. We kindly ask everyone to continue keeping the monks in your thoughts and prayers as healing begins and the journey toward peace continues. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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On Thursday, Walk for Peace provided this statement:

The Walk For Peace team wishes to provide an important update following last night’s accident near Dayton, Texas. One of our monks who was injured in the incident is currently undergoing surgery. The remaining monks sustained minor injuries and, with resilience and determination, will continue the Walk For Peace journey as planned. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of concern, prayers, and compassionate messages from communities near and far. Your kindness strengthens the Sangha during this challenging time. We respectfully ask everyone to continue praying for the monk undergoing surgery, for his recovery, and for the safety of all who remain on the path of peace. We will share additional updates, including the monk’s post-surgery condition, as soon as verified information becomes available.

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The Walk for Peace Team gave this statement on Wednesday:

The Walk For Peace team confirms that an accident occurred at approximately 6:15 PM [Wednesday] along U.S. 90 near SH-99 Dayton, Texas, involving several monks participating in the Walk For Peace journey. An escorted driver traveling with the Sangha was also involved in the accident. At this time, we know that some monks and their escorted driver sustained injuries; however, we are still in the process of receiving verified updates regarding their medical conditions. Local authorities and emergency responders arrived promptly, and the monks were transported to the nearest hospital for evaluation and treatment. We understand the deep concern shared by supporters, communities, and individuals around the world. We are equally worried for the safety and well-being of the monks and are working closely with law enforcement and medical teams to gather accurate information. Out of respect for the monks and their families - and to prevent the circulation of unconfirmed details - we will release additional information only after it is formally provided by the hospital and attending medical professionals. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the compassion, prayers, and well-wishes coming from across the globe. Your support brings great comfort to our community during this difficult time. Further updates will be provided through our official communication channels as more information becomes available.