It’s a tragedy that has left the LaPorte community in shock – On the morning of July 19, a terrible car accident in LaPorte killed one woman and severely injured two little girls.
On Monday night friends and family came together in song and prayer to remember a life lost and two lives struggling to recover.
“It’s heartbreaking and sometimes unbelievable,” said Jennifer McWhirter-Mrozinski. “They’re wonderful little girls, energetic and full of spirit.”
Neilah Maule, 8, from LaPorte is at a Comers Children hospital In Chicago with a brain injury.
“She’s recovering slowly, but with a lot of spirit,” Jennifer said with a smile.
Her younger sister, 5-year old Jaidyn, was just released from Riley Hospital for Children with a fractured arm, clavicle and thigh.
Emergency responders were called about 7:30 a.m. CST to Joliet Road just west of Wozniak Road.
According to LaPorte County Police, the investigation shows 26-year-old Katherine Atkins of Valparaiso was eastbound on a sharp curve. John Mikle, of Michigan City, was traveling at a high rate of speed when he veered over the centerline and struck the front driver's side of the oncoming car.
The head-on crash injured Neilah and Jaidyn and killed Katherine, their father's girlfriend.
Friends say both girls are showing positive healing signs everyday – but their road to emotional and physical recovery is still in the early stages, and that’s why every little bit helps.
From a car wash to a bake sale, a softball game to this vigil tonight– there’s no shortage of love for these girls and their recovery process. The community has stepped up in full force to show their support.
In the police accident report, police say the driver that hit Atkin’s car may have been under the influence of illegal drugs. The prosecutor’s office says no charges have been filed as of Monday.
If you’d like to help the little girl’s recovery process, you can donate at the LaPorte Savings Bank under the Nelah and Jaidyn Recovery fund.
