Alaska Outdoorsman Tyler Freel Seriously Injured in Work-Related Accident in Idaho
Boise, Idaho — Alaska-based outdoor writer and hunter Tyler Freel was seriously injured on Friday, October 31, while traveling for work in Idaho. Freel sustained multiple fractures, internal injuries, and severe internal bleeding. He was airlifted by helicopter to a trauma center in Boise, where he underwent emergency surgery.
His wife, Faith Freel, immediately traveled to Idaho to be by his side as he began what is expected to be a long and challenging recovery. Friends and family have since rallied around the couple, offering prayers, encouragement, and financial
through a GoFundMe campaign organized by Tyler’s brother.
After showing promising signs of progress earlier in the week including walking a few steps Tyler faced a setback when doctors discovered a collapsed lung (pneumothorax) likely caused by broken ribs. A chest tube was inserted to stabilize his breathing, and his trauma team has recommended another surgery to repair and reinforce his damaged ribs using a VATS procedure with cryoablation.
Due to the lung injury, physicians have advised against air travel for at least a month. The Freels are now navigating how best to balance Tyler’s continued care in Idaho with responsibilities at home to their children in Alaska.
Despite the uncertainty, Faith expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support:
“We are so thankful and humbled by the love, prayers, and offers of help. The GoFundMe has lifted a huge weight off our shoulders. God is good, and we’re trusting Him through this journey.”
Surgical Update — November 4
Tyler successfully underwent surgery to repair multiple ribs on his left side. Surgeons also discovered that one rib had punctured his lung, requiring a partial lung resection, but the overall procedure was deemed successful.
November 5 Update
Faith shared that the last few days have been difficult, but Tyler continues to make small steps toward recovery. Though exhausted, he’s been able to communicate briefly and find comfort in the many messages of encouragement from friends and supporters.
“It’s painful to see him hurting,” Faith wrote, “but your support makes this so much more bearable. I’m reminding myself that while I may be reeling, none of this surprises God. He loves Tyler and our kids even more than I do.”
Ongoing Recovery
By the following day, Tyler had gained enough strength to sit up and move to a chair. His condition remains stable, though doctors note that his lung is still recovering. Faith recounted a conversation with Tyler’s trauma surgeon, who revealed just how close Tyler came to losing his life citing the combination of a ruptured spleen, blood loss, and lung trauma.
“The surgeon told us that had even one thing gone differently, Tyler might not be here,” Faith shared. “His rib surgery alone required more hardware than some major spine or pelvic reconstructions.”
The Freels are now making tentative discharge plans but expect to remain in Boise for several weeks while Tyler’s lungs heal enough for safe travel. Their children are expected to join them soon.
Faith closed her latest update with heartfelt gratitude:
“We can’t thank you enough for your prayers, encouragement, and care. Every single message means the world to us.”
