Rear-End Collision Has Tragic Consequences

While on vacation in July, the Johnson family of Palm Bay, FL was rear-ended as they were stopped at a red light. A speeding pickup truck slammed into the back of the family's van, crushing it and devastating the family. 10-year-old Brooke and 8-year-old Kathryn suffered broken bones that left them wheel-chair bound for weeks and have required extensive physical therapy. Susannah Johnson was 20 weeks pregnant and suffered from almost 12 broken ribs. 3-year-old Owen's spinal cord was torn, leaving him completely paralyzed from the neck down and dependent on a ventilator. 6-year-old Hannah Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to Florida Today the Johnson family is returning home this week having spent the last 3 months in and out of a hospital in Chattanooga, TN. Their community rallied around them with businesses collecting money for medical bills and local contractors donating a $40,000 home makeover to make it possible for the family to bring Owen home.

The driver of the pickup truck that caused the rear-end accident was unhurt in the collision. Officials say alcohol may have been a factor in the car crash .