Crandall families welcomed a joyful reunion this week as 5‑year‑old Leo Bryant Steward returned home after more than a month of intensive care for traumatic brain injuries. The young boy and his mother, Markietta Bryant, were seriously injured on August 11 when their vehicle was T‑boned at the busy intersection of Elam Road and N. Masters Drive in Pleasant Grove.
Road to recovery
Following the crash, Leo was rushed to Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where doctors diagnosed swelling and internal bleeding in his brain. He was later transferred to Children’s Medical Center Plano for continued treatment and physical therapy. Over the course of the month, Leo made “huge progress,” according to his mother, who said he was unresponsive for several days before regaining consciousness.
“When I pulled my son out of the car, he was unresponsive,” Markietta told FOX 4’s Peyton Yager. “Even when we got his pulse, he still wasn’t awake for a few days before he woke up.” Leo told Yager he tried to stay strong for his mom throughout the ordeal.
During his hospital stay, Leo’s room was decorated with Sonic the Hedgehog memorabilia, a favorite of his that also brightens his home bedroom. The familiar theme helped keep his spirits up as he worked through physical therapy and neurological assessments.
Legal action against the driver
Police arrested 54‑year‑old Ronnie Alcaraz on the day of the crash. An affidavit indicates a 911 caller reported that Alcaraz, who was the victim’s boyfriend, threatened the victim with knives after she refused to accompany him to a liquor store. The caller also said Alcaraz was intoxicated and attempted to pin the victim to their house with his vehicle.
When officers arrived at the residence, Alcaraz fled, striking three other vehicles before being apprehended. He now faces charges of evading arrest, causing serious bodily harm, aggravated assault‑family violence, and interference with an emergency call. The affidavit notes Alcaraz had outstanding warrants in Rains County for making a terroristic threat.
Alcaraz remains in the Dallas County Jail on a $355,000 bond while the case proceeds.
Next steps for Leo
Leo will continue physical therapy at home to regain strength and coordination. He was slated to start kindergarten before the crash, and his family plans to introduce him to his new teacher tomorrow. The community has rallied around the Steward family, offering prayers, meals, and support as Leo transitions back to everyday life.
Local officials praised the rapid response of emergency services and reminded drivers to exercise caution at busy intersections, especially during evening rush hour. The incident underscores the importance of sober driving and the need for vigilant road safety measures in growing suburban areas.
Community response
Neighbors and fellow church members gathered to pray for Leo’s full recovery, emphasizing the role of faith and family in healing. “We thank God for Leo’s progress and ask for continued strength for his mother,” said one parishioner, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted Christian values.
As Leo settles back into his home and school routine, the Steward family hopes their story will encourage others to prioritize safety on the road and to support one another in times of crisis.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
