A Pakistani student, Dania Zaheer, has been critically injured in a hit-and-run accident in Houston, Texas. The 25-year-old was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street, resulting in severe injuries, including fractures to her pelvis, hip, arm, and femur, along with multiple other broken bones.
Dania, who moved to Houston to pursue her MBA at North American University, was hit by a car on Thursday. The driver fled the scene without stopping.
The Houston Police Department (HPD) has launched an investigation, but no suspects or vehicle details have been identified. A witness is helping authorities search for video footage of the incident.
Currently hospitalized at Memorial Hermann, Dania is undergoing major surgery. Doctors have reported that she has at least six broken bones and fluid in her lungs, which is complicating her breathing.
From her hospital bed, Dania expressed her heartbreak over the accident. “I had a really bright future, and now, I can’t see anything,” she said.
Alone in the U.S. with no family nearby, Dania is uncertain about her next steps after being discharged from the hospital. Her parents, who are in Pakistan, lack the financial means to travel to Houston.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has voiced concern about the accident and assured that the Pakistani government will assist Dania’s family if they wish to travel to the U.S.
The Pakistani Consulate in Houston has already visited Dania and pledged full support for her recovery.
Dania’s Dream and Uncertain Situation
Dania had come to the U.S. with hopes of securing a better future for herself and her family, but the accident has left her feeling helpless and uncertain.
Her decision to speak publicly about her situation has resonated with the local Texas community. Salman Razzaqi, president of the Pakistani Association of Greater Houston, was moved after seeing Dania’s interview.
“It was heartbreaking to see someone around my daughter’s age suffering in such pain,” Razzaqi said. After viewing the interview, he mobilized community leaders and coordinated with the Pakistani Consulate to visit Dania. He believes this support has given her some hope.
“I think she’s starting to feel more positive. The outpouring of help and comforting words have made a difference,” Razzaqi added, noting that the community’s goal is to help Dania recover, return to school, and fulfill her dreams.
Meanwhile, a Pakistani businessman in Houston Ali Sheikhani has also offered assistance, pledging support through a foundation named in honor of his late mother.
