GOP candidate who ousted Rep. Mark Sanford seriously injured in fatal South Carolina vehicle crash

Katie Arrington, who ousted Rep. Mark Sanford (R-S.C.) during The Palmetto State's Republican primary earlier this month, was seriously injured in a fatal vehicle accident late Friday.

What happened?

According to WCSC-TV, Arrington was traveling on South Carolina Highway 17 in Charleston County with her friend, Jacqueline Goff, when their vehicle was struck by a vehicle driving in the opposite lanes of traffic. Arrington was traveling to Hilton Head where she was slated to receive an award on Saturday from a state medical organization.

The collision seriously injured both Arrington and Goff and killed the driver who was driving in the wrong direction.

According to Arrington's campaign, which posted a statement on her Facebook page, Arrington underwent a "major surgery" overnight and will likely remain hospitalized for the near future.

"Katie sustained a fracture in her back and several broken ribs, as well as injuries that required Katie to undergo major surgery including the removal of a portion of her small intestine and a portion of her colon. Additionally, the main artery in her legs has a partial collapse and will require a stent," the campaign said.

"Additional surgeries will be required including one likely today; and it is likely that Katie will remain hospitalized for the next two weeks," the campaign explained.

The campaign also noted Arrington's resiliency and asked for prayers.

"As her family asked last night, Katie asks for your continued prayers for the deceased and the deceased's family, as well as prayers for a quick recovery for Katie and her friend," the campaign said.

How did Arrington's opponent react?

Joe Cunningham, the Democratic candidate challenging Arrington for South Carolina's first congressional district, said he is praying for Arrington and announced he was suspending all campaign activities "until further notice."

What did President Trump say?

The president tweeted:

Editor's note: This story has been updated to add President Trump's tweet.