OKC Police Officer Fights For Life After Off-Duty Crash

An Oklahoma City Police Officer fighting for his life Monday afternoon. Matt Grice was off-duty on Sunday when he was in a serious crash in Shawnee.

A lot of people have Officer Matt Grice and his family in their prayers. We're told he remains in critical condition at OU Medical Center.

9/8/2013 Related Story: OKC Police Officer, MMA Fighter Critical After Crash In Pott. Co.

Officer Grice has been with Oklahoma City Police for five years, and he's also known for his success as an MMA fighter from Oklahoma.

"He's just the kind of guy who looks out for everybody, just always happy. [He's] always a fun guy to be around, somebody you just enjoy having around you," friend Dr. Ron Tripp said.

Those closest to Matt Grice know he's a role model as an Oklahoma City Police Officer and professional MMA fighter.

Dr. Ron Tripp first met Grice when the Harrah, Oklahoma, native was a young wrestler.

"When you want transition to MMA from a wrestler into a successful UFC fighter, Matt is the epitome of that. I mean, he gets in there, still throws the punches, throws the kicks, but it's still Oklahoma wrestling," Tripp said.

Grice was a four-time state champion in high school wrestling, and went on to compete at the University of Oklahoma. He kept fighting, joining the MMA, as he became a police officer and started a family.

"He's one of the greatest people you could meet," Tripp said.

Now, this fighter is facing another battle. A crash near Shawnee Sunday afternoon left him critically injured. He underwent brain surgery Sunday night.

On Monday, the R - 1 training gym in Oklahoma City, where Grice trains other young fighters, is closed as family and friends pray for his recovery.

OHP says three cars were involved in the crash. Grice was waiting at a stoplight when he was rear-ended.

We're told the driver of that car was distracted by a passenger, and Grice was not wearing a seatbelt.