Two years after surviving a life-threatening snowplow accident, Jeremy Renner is revealing chilling new details about the moment he “died.” In his new book, My Final Breath, the Avengers star recounts the horrifying events of New Year’s Day 2023 when he was run over by his 14,000-pound PistenBully Snowcat at his Lake Tahoe home.
The Moment He “Died”
As Renner lay on the icy driveway, his heart rate slowed dramatically, and he experienced what he describes as an overwhelming sense of peace. “I died, right there on the driveway to my house,” he shared in the book. “I know I died. In fact, I’m sure of it.”
Renner explained that after about 30 minutes on the ice, struggling to breathe manually, his heart rate “bottomed out at 18,” which the EMTs confirmed was essentially a “dead” state. Despite his critical condition, he recalls a surreal feeling of “energy” during the ordeal, describing it as a connected, electric force that allowed him to see his entire lifetime all at once.
The Brutality of the Accident
The snowplow accident left Renner with catastrophic injuries. He detailed the moment of impact in graphic terms, writing, “Six f-cking wheels, seventy-six steel blades, 14,000 pounds of machine, all ranged against one human body.” He vividly recalled hearing his bones shatter, from his skull to his ribs, and even seeing his left eye with his right eye.
First responders acted quickly in sub-zero temperatures to rescue Renner, with bodycam footage capturing the frantic efforts to save his life. After being airlifted to a nearby hospital, he underwent multiple surgeries to treat blunt chest trauma and orthopedic damage. Renner spent much of 2023 focused on recovery, pushing through immense physical and emotional challenges.
A Powerful Reflection on Life
Renner shared powerful insights on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, reflecting on his traumatic journey. “If we get too stressed or if things get too difficult… just put one foot down and then put another foot down,” he said, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and perspective in the face of adversity.
Marking His “ReBirthday”
On January 1, 2025, exactly two years after his near-death accident, Renner celebrated his emotional second “ReBirthday” on Instagram. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support he received throughout his recovery, from medical professionals to his family and friends. He thanked his heroic neighbors and nephew, Alex Fries, who were among the first to come to his aid.
“I literally owe you my life,” Renner wrote, acknowledging the doctors, nurses, and first responders who helped save him. He closed his message with a powerful declaration: “Blessed to take my next step, to take MY NEXT BREATH. Thank you with every fiber and cell in my body. I love you ALL.”
Renner’s story of survival and recovery is a testament to resilience, gratitude, and the profound connection we share with those who help us in our darkest moments.
