FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - Some family members involved in a Dania Beach incident where a truck struck three relatives are speaking out.
The Wensel family of seven was visiting Florida on vacation when, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue said, they were hit by a truck while they walked along a roadway. According to BSO Fire Rescue, the family were walking back to their hotel near Southwest 42nd Street and Ravens Wood Road, Sunday, when the motorist crossed over the median and struck three of them.
The mother, 47-year-old Kathleen Wensel, told 7News on the phone that the entire ordeal has been traumatic to handle for the family.
The three hit by the truck remain in the hospital, including the oldest sister who lost her leg as a result of the incident and the youngest son who will undergo surgery on Tuesday. The truck driver was also hurt and transported to the hospital.
“So thankful for, like I said, the sheriff’s department and fire department,” said crash survivor and 24-year-old Bryon Wensel, “and then the whole staff at the hospital for the exceptional care provided.”
The family will remain at the hospital for an undisclosed time.
“The woman’s injury was so serious that her lower leg was severed in the crash,” said BSFR spokesperson Mike Jachles.
Ten-year-old Tyson suffered a broken leg and other injuries in the crash.
“We’re still waiting on Tyson to go through surgery,” Bryon said.
Bryon said Raquel, 24, could’ve suffered a worse fate if emergency responders hadn’t arrive so quickly.
“The results would have been so much worse if they weren’t as quick and professional as they have been,” Bryon said. “Raquel needs to start recovery. We don’t have an idea of when we’ll be able to come back, when Raquel will be in a stable situation where she can be transported to the University of Utah.”
Police said the driver of the truck crossed several lanes of traffic before striking some of the family members.
Police are continuing to investigate whether drugs, alcohol or speed were a factor.
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