MINNEAPOLIS — Local restaurateur and chef Justin Sutherland is recovering after a boating accident, according to a post on his Instagram page.
The accident happened on July 3, but Sutherland is reportedly in "good spirits."
According to a GoFundMe page set up on Sutherland's behalf, the Twin Cities chef was captaining a boat over the Fourth of July weekend when his hat blew off. When Sutherland tried to grab it, he hit a wave, was knocked off the boat and was hit by the propeller in the water. Sutherland broke his arm and other bones, and he has "many lacerations" along with a "severely broken" jaw.
"The great news is, he is going to be fine," the latest GoFundMe update said. "With some time, he will possibly be better than fine. He is adding more character to the face we know and love, and the most important news, his beard is intact."
As of Wednesday morning, the fundraiser raised more than $55,000, with a goal of $500,000. The page says money raised will go toward Sutherland's medical bills and expenses while he's unable to work. At the time of the accident, Sutherland did not have health insurance.
Sutherland operates multiple Twin Cities restaurants, including Handsome Hog, Obachan Noodles and Chicken, Chickpea Hummus Bar, The Gnome, Woodfire Cantina and Gray Duck Tavern. He's also the founder of streetwear and lifestyle brand Hybrid Nation. Ties Lounge & Rooftop announced on Instagram Thursday that Sutherland's new restaurant, Northern Soul, will open later this summer.
The St. Paul native competed on Season 16 of "Top Chef" and won Iron Chef America, where he went head-to-head with Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli.
Sutherland is also the co-host of TruTV's "Fast Foodies" with Kristen Kish and Jeremy Ford.
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