This post is going to be far more personal than I usually write. I am going to tell the story of Nariah Johnson, a four-year-old girl who was killed yesterday in a bizarre accident that took place in the parking lot of the Walmart where I work. The accident occurred around 1030 on 3 March 2021.
I was on my lunch period sitting outside when I heard several thunking sounds, followed by what sounded like screaming and shouting. Minor accidents occur all the time in the parking lot, so when I investigated the screaming, my initial thought was that a couple drivers were about to get into a fight. What I saw when I got to the area was something like this:
The screaming was because a child, three-year-old Robert Johnson was still trapped underneath the truck. There were perhaps ten people trying to lift the truck to free the child. As I went to help, I caught a glimpse of another woman who had a bloodied face and was crying in panic. The people managed to free Robert before I found a position to help. Robert walked away with obvious shoulder injuries, so I turned my attention to a little girl lying on the sidewalk where you can see the dark spot on the sidewalk.
The little girl was Nariah Johnson. I knelt next to her. Her head was a bloody mess, and I could not feel a pulse. Two other people and I performed CPR on Nariah, switching as we got tired and continuing until the paramedics arrived. At that point, we still did not have a pulse.
Once the paramedics arrived, I left the area so they could do their work. I was already breaking down in uncontrollable sobs as I gathered my things and went back into the store. I called my nephew to pick me up while I headed to my work area to tell my team leader I couldn't stay. All I knew at that point was that I had failed to save that little girl's life. At the time, I still did not even know her name.
In due time, my nephew arrived. We loaded my bicycle into the truck and he drove me home. Talking about what happened left me sobbing again. My store manager called me later to be sure I got home safely. I was informed at that time that the paramedics had restored Nariah's pulse before taking her to the hospital. I learned it was indeed possible to laugh and cry at the same time.
But whatever hope I had that Nariah might survive was shortlived. By refreshing my news search on the accident over and over, I learned that Nariah died at the hospital of brain injuries. I also learned that Nariah had been dragged completely underneath the truck. I can't even begin to imagine the horror Nariah and her family went through.
At last check, the reason the truck jumped the curb and hit the Johnson family is still under investigation, though the police seem to have ruled out driver impairment. The driver may face charges of reckless driving, which I find hard to wrap my mind around. A child was killed and at most, the driver will have to spend six months in jail. I am one of the last people in the world who would advocate for vengeance, but a mere charge of reckless driving for killing someone in such a horrific way is incredibly shallow.
Once I felt calm enough, I called the Glendale Police Department to give them my information. Although I did not actually see the accident happen, the things I saw and did at the accident scene may still be helpful for any prosecution. As of now, they had not called me back.
Through the news, I also learned that a vigil for Nariah would be held last night. I went back to the store, intending to participate in the vigil. Unfortunately, when I got there, there were a number of mixed messages as to whether and when it would took place. This morning, I learned the vigil happened after all. I deeply regret missing it.
The family has set up a GoFundMe asking funds for Nariah's funeral expenses. As of this writing, they have nearly achieved their goal. Presumably, the Johnson family will also need help with medical expenses. Robert went through surgery, but the last word I've had is that he will pull through.
Before 1030 of 3 March 2021, just yesterday, I did not know Nariah Johnson. She was presumably one of the many young children I made it a point to wave to while asking the adults if they needed any help in my store. After 1030 of 3 March 2021, Nariah Johnson is someone I will never forget.
The following photos come from the Johnson family via fox10phoenix.com.
Post updated 4 March 2021 1430
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