GREENSBORO, N.C. — A father and son are finally reunited after both being involved in a crash that happened on I-40 back on January 20.
A wrong-way driver sped down the interstate and ended up hitting a car head-on, causing multiple accidents. Jose Gonzalez, his mother Olivia, and his 6-year-old son Armani were all in the first car that was hit. All three of them were taken to the hospital.
After spending eight years in the military, Jose said he tried to shield his family from the crash. He said it was at that moment he shattered his leg on impact.
Thankfully, 6-year-old Armani was able to go home from the hospital the next day with minor injuries. Jose, however, suffered broken ribs, a dislocated elbow, broken femur, and fluid in his lungs.
“I’m scared. It’s a bad feeling and I wouldn’t wish this feeling on my worst enemy,” Jose said.
Now, he struggles every day, not knowing what tomorrow will bring.
“I could catch COVID and die tomorrow. I could catch pneumonia and die tonight. I’m just glad my baby is fine and my mom is fine,” Jose said.
Jose said his mother Olivia is out of the hospital and back at home too. She is still in a lot of pain but recovering.
Jose's sister started a Go Fund Me to help the family with medical expenses.
North Carolina Highway Patrol said 69-year-old Pearlie Mae Williams of McLeansville was the driver of the car that crashed head-on with another vehicle near mile marker 138 on I-40. Troopers said a total of seven cars were involved.
Troopers still don't know why Williams ended up going the wrong way on the highway. Detectives said her husband reported her missing just 20 minutes before the crash.