The car also would have had to be in gear to move forward. If that was the case, he said, that could have also explained why the car wouldn’t start. Most cars won’t start unless the transmission is in park or neutral.

Lloyd was able to visit LeDell in the hospital Thursday night, and said LeDell was able to give a thumbs-up sign.

LeDell, who graduated from Minnesota State University in spring 2007 with a degree from the Department of Automotive and Manufacturing Engineering Technology, has a toddler son named Anders, Lloyd said.

That boy is one reason Lloyd is sure his friend will pull through.

“Keep him in your prayers,” Lloyd said. “He’s a stubborn guy and he has a lot to live for. He’s going to make it. If you know him, you know he doesn’t like to be in a bed.”