Prom Night Nightmare: Teens' Car Launched into the Air in Shocking Florida Crash (Exclusive)
A joyous prom night took a terrifying turn for two Florida teens when their car was struck with such force it was sent airborne. Ryan Brown and her boyfriend, Malachi Etienne, were blissfully driving home in his white Toyota Corolla after celebrating their prom. The couple, just five minutes away from Ryan's house, experienced a moment that will forever be etched in their memories – and a near-fatal accident.
According to authorities and witness accounts, another vehicle, described as a dark-coloured pickup truck, ran a red light at a high speed, slamming into Malachi's Corolla. The impact was so severe that the Corolla was launched into the air, spinning violently before coming to rest several feet away. The scene, described by onlookers as “surreal,” left many in shock.
“It happened so fast,” recounted a nearby resident who witnessed the crash. “One minute they were driving along, the next there was this huge bang and the car just… flew. It was terrifying to watch.”
Both Ryan and Malachi were extracted from the wreckage by first responders. Miraculously, despite the horrific nature of the crash, they both sustained relatively minor injuries. Ryan suffered a concussion and some bruising, while Malachi escaped with a few scrapes and a sore neck. They were immediately transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
“We’re incredibly grateful that they’re okay,” said Ryan's mother, visibly shaken. “It could have been so much worse. We’re just thankful they’re alive.”
Police Investigation Underway: Driver Still at Large
The investigation into the accident is ongoing. Police are actively searching for the driver of the pickup truck, who reportedly fled the scene immediately after the collision. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the driver’s identification and apprehension. The driver is facing charges of reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident with injuries, and potentially more, pending further investigation.
“We’re doing everything we can to locate this individual,” stated Officer David Miller, spokesperson for the Florida Highway Patrol. “We urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information about the vehicle or driver to come forward and contact us immediately.”
Community Support and a Message of Hope
The local community has rallied around Ryan and Malachi, offering support and well wishes. A GoFundMe page has been established to help cover medical expenses and car repairs. The outpouring of kindness has been a source of comfort for the families involved.
Despite the trauma they’ve experienced, Ryan and Malachi are determined to move forward. “We’re just so thankful to be alive,” Ryan said in a statement released through the hospital. “We’re going to take things one day at a time and focus on healing and supporting each other.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving and the devastating consequences of reckless behaviour on our roads. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and to always obey traffic laws.
