NEW RICHMOND, Wis. - A teenager from New Richmond, Wisconsin says his three friends became his top priority, when the SUV they were riding in, crashed into a semi truck. Monday's accident on Interstate 94 near Hudson killed 17-year-old Josh Goodrich and 16-year-old Jordan Johnson.
Thomas Wanless, 17, was in the backseat of the SUV but he doesn't remember the crash. He just remembers waking up and knowing that his friends needed more help than he did.
While still inside the vehicle Thomas says he helped paramedics put an oxygen mask and neck brace on the driver, 17-year-old Zach Zajac, a friend he's known since childhood.
Zach remains in critical condition at Regions Hospital.
"I've been able to see him a couple times, even though he's in critical condition I'm trying to pray for him. I still have this thought that he'll make it through this," said Wanless.
Wanless suffered a broken collar bone and was expected to be released from Regions Hospital Thursday night.
On Friday, Wanless plans on attending the funerals for Goodrich and Johnson.
A candlelight vigil for the victims will be held Sunday night at New Richmond High School. The vigil is scheduled to take place at 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 5th, at the New Richmond High School track, near the south fence.
A medical and memorial fund has been set up for the crash victims and their family. Donations can be sent to:
c/o Tom Wanless
WESTconsin Credit Union
PO BOX 269 New Richmond, WI 54017
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