Brieonna Cassell, a 41-year-old woman from Wheatfield, Indiana, was found alive on March 12 after being missing for six days. She was discovered trapped in her wrecked vehicle along a northwest Indiana roadway by Johnny Martinez, who noticed the car off the road while operating equipment nearby.
- Brieonna Cassell was missing for six days.
- Found trapped in her vehicle in Indiana.
- Johnny Martinez credited as a hero.
- Cassell sustained compound fractures in legs.
- GoFundMe created for medical recovery funds.
- Cassell's outlook is good but recovery lengthy.
Cassell had fallen asleep at the wheel on March 5, causing her car to veer off the road and land in a ditch. The Newton County Sheriff’s Office reported that she was the only occupant of the vehicle and remained conscious when discovered. Despite being unable to call for help effectively due to her location, she managed to survive by using a sweatshirt to collect water from a nearby creek.
Upon finding Cassell, Martinez alerted his supervisor, who is also the chief of the Morocco Fire Department. Emergency responders transported Cassell to a hospital in Chicago where she is currently in stable condition but has sustained two compound fractures in both legs. Her mother shared that Cassell is scheduled for surgery and faces a long recovery ahead.
- Cassell’s accident occurred near the Newton County Landfill, approximately 90 miles southeast of Chicago.
- A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support her medical expenses with an initial goal of $15,000; as of Wednesday afternoon, it had raised $3,460.
The quick actions of Johnny Martinez are credited with saving Cassell’s life. Sheriff Shannon Cothran expressed gratitude towards him for his keen observation and prompt response during this critical situation.
This incident highlights both the dangers of drowsy driving and the importance of community vigilance. As Brieonna Cassell begins her recovery journey, support from friends and strangers alike demonstrates compassion during difficult times.
