NEW HAVEN — A 22-year-old Barre man who apparently “leapt in front of” an oncoming car while walking along Route 7 early Sunday afternoon was air-lifted to Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington following the bizarre accident.

Police said the extent of Christopher Appleton’s injuries were unknown and they were struggling to explain what prompted him to jump into the path of a northbound Subaru Outback wagon driven by Wesley Gruber moments after 2 p.m. on Sunday.

According to police, Gruber, 30, of Burlington, swerved into the southbound lane in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid hitting Appleton, who had been walking north along Route 7 at the time.

Police said the accident was witnessed by two other motorists who confirmed Gruber’s account.

Appleton was initially transported to Porter Medical Center in Middlebury before being air-lifted to Fletcher Allen. Officials at the Burlington hospital said they were unable to discuss Appleton’s condition or even confirm that he was a patient.

Gruber, who was wearing his seat belt at the time of the accident, was not injured, according to police, who said his car sustained damage to its windshield, front fender and passenger side.

Police said they are actively investigating a possible motive for Appleton’s act and are asking anyone who might be able to help them to call the state police barracks in Middlebury – 388-4919 – or submit an anonymous tip by texting “CRIMES” (274637) to Keyword: VTIPS.