A Chicago mother of two lost her life in a hit-and-run on the Dan Ryan Expressway in a devastating incident early Tuesday morning of Dec. 5.
The tragedy unfolded following a minor crash in the southbound lanes at 18th Street, according to a release from the Illinois State Police.
The victim, identified as Stephanie N. Johnson by her grieving family, was involved in the initial crash just before 2:30 a.m.
Reports suggest that Johnson exited her vehicle after the minor collision and was fatally struck by another car.
As the investigation unfolds, no arrests have been made, leaving Johnson’s family pleading for assistance in finding the alleged hit-and-run driver.
“We are so heartbroken and distraught by her death,” expressed Camille Jadé, the victim’s cousin, adding, “We just want answers, and we’re asking the city of Chicago if they know or saw the accident to please help our family in this devastating time.”
Stephanie Johnson’s mother, who shares the same name, spoke to ABC affiliate WLS and revealed that she had spoken to her daughter just three hours before the tragic incident.
“I didn’t want to believe it,” she shared, expressing the immense shock and grief.
The mother emphasized that the crash has left a “big hole” in her heart.
Describing Stephanie as the “family princess,” Jadé highlighted her cousin’s commitment to community service projects throughout the year, aiming to be a positive role model for the city.
She remembered Stephanie as a beautiful dancer who knew how to have fun, referring to her as “the light of every party.”
With Stephanie’s untimely demise, the family now faces the painful reality that her children will grow up without their mother.
“They’re going to miss their mom,” lamented Johnson in an interview with WLS.
As the Illinois State Police continue their investigation, anyone with information about the hit-and-run is urged to come forward and assist in bringing justice to Stephanie N. Johnson’s grieving family.
A GoFundMe has been organised by Tiffany Washington to raise $50,000 for the Johnson Family to alleviate the financial stress on them during this time.
“We are asking that you donate to raise funds for Stephanie’s services, along with support to the kids’ care. Stephanie’s children have so much life ahead of them and your support will not only help with her services but create a lasting difference in her children’s lives as they adjust to tragically losing their mother,” a statement on the GoFundMe reads in part.
“While GoFundMe requires a goal, we welcome any support you are willing to give for the Johnson Family,” the statement added.
