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Highway Crash Forces Monk to Undergo Leg Amputation During Peace Walk

This Week

A Fort Worth-based Lao American Buddhist monk, Maha Dam Phommasan, underwent surgery to amputate his leg after a highway accident on 19 November left him critically injured. 

Phommasan, the Abbot of Wat Buddha Khanti in Atlanta, was struck when a pickup truck collided with a pilot vehicle escorting the nationwide Walk for Peace group along the U.S. Route 90 in Dayton, Texas. Another monk sustained minor injuries in the incident.

Phommasan opted for the leg amputation to avoid multiple surgeries and accelerate his recovery. Following the procedure on 3 December, he was reported to be “resting comfortably under medical care and beginning the healing process.”

The Walk for Peace, a 2,300-mile journey that began in late October at the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, aims to spread messages of reflection, prayer, and blessings across ten states on the route to Washington, D.C. Emergency responders acted swiftly at the scene, and the truck driver involved cooperated fully with authorities.

Supporters from around the world have offered prayers and encouragement, while the group continues to engage communities along the route, sharing updates through social media and a live tracking map. 

Despite the accident, organizers emphasized that the monks remain resilient and plan to continue the journey once Phommasan’s recovery stabilizes.

Fellow monks and organizers praised Phommasan’s determination and commitment, noting that the expedition’s purpose remains unchanged. The Lao American Society confirmed the incident and highlighted Phommasan’s longstanding role as a respected spiritual leader and community supporter. 

Tue Nhan Bhikkhu, vice president of the temple, said the journey is intended to bring hope and blessings to countless lives, adding that the monks’ dedication remains unwavering despite the setback.

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