Interviewed: Billy O'Neil - 08/02/21

So how /are/ you??

- im ok. Im limping around everywhere with crutches, but its alright. Nothing broken. I have 2 sprained ankles. The left one is in a cast because it was more of a major sprain than the right one. The left one was also dislocated but the doctor twisted it back into place. The right one was a minor sprain but I still cant walk on it right now. But im on the road to recovery.

Why did the video go online? Do you think it was a bad idea?

When I got out of the hospital they showed me the raw footage of the accident and I was like wow that was crazy. They asked me if they could put it online, so I said sure. After the video went online it obviously caused a big deal. There was a lot of backlashing at vinny and a lot also aimed at the conference saying it being used in poor taste for publicity. i understand why people feel like that, I would feel the same way, but I have to say there were no intentions like that behind it at all. It was shown how it happened and the black spots were put there by the editor to add to the intensity of the situation. Although some people believe putting it up is in bad taste, they would have never done it if I was seriously seriously injured.

What exactly happened?

-well I did the trick the first time and I was telling people to watch out for the street, meaning the first street and theyd say it was good so I straight jumped it and I was able to turn before the main street. Then the second time I jumped I did the same thing but I skated a lot faster, and I ended up getting more speed than I thought so even thought the first street was clear I couldn’t stop and it all happened so fast I didn’t think to slide. I looked in the street for a split second and I was in it and saw a car comin for me fast as hell. I fell back and kicked my feet out and it hit the front bumper then the car sent me back. I kneed myself in the nose, it started bleeding and I basically sat there in pain like wow this sucks. Then the ambulance came and the whole scene. Now im just waiting to get better.



What went to your mind at that moment?

Im pretty sure it was something along the lines of FUCK

How do you feel about that whole thing right now?

Well I wish it never happened, but I just wanna focus on getting better.

What injuries did you sustain from the accident?

2 sprained ankles, a dislocated ankle and a swift kick in the ass.

Any problems with the police, the driver or hospital?

I didn’t hear anything from the driver. The hospital was cool, just gotta pay a bill. the police were busting out chops at first too but they eased up.

Any shout outs or advice for kids skating street?

Seriously be careful. Obviously what had happened to me is avoidable, so just be aware it can happen and avoid it. Also, thanks for the support when the accident happened that means a lot to me. Peace.

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