Thomas DiMera’s accident sends Salem into a frenzy.

When the ambulance arrives, Chad and Jennifer pull their son off the road – but the sight of Thomas unconscious in his father’s arms is breathtaking.

At the hospital, Dr. Kayla Brady confirms that Thomas is not in mortal danger, just a broken arm and a concussion.

But his empty eyes say otherwise: Thomas is no longer the brash young man he once was – but someone who has just reached the edge of life and death.

Jennifer sits by the bed, holding her son’s hand: “Can you hear me? I’m here.” Thomas looks out the window and asks softly: “Are you sure this is the real world?” Just one sentence is chilling. Chad stands behind him, saying nothing – but his expression is both scared and helpless.

Later, Thomas suddenly smashes a glass of water when he hears Chad and Jennifer arguing about “Horton’s old truth.” Blood seeping from his hand, the camera zooming in, the music pounding. Kayla being sedated. Jennifer screaming, “Enough! I’m going to find out who did this to my son!”

Fans are saying that this shock will make Thomas the center of a new drama, possibly delving deeper into the darkness of the DiMera family. A character who was once gentle – now could be a vengeful one.