Deadly Vehicle Accident Devastates Joliet Family
Father died and daughter faces months of recovery
By Denise Rivette
On December 22 just after 4:00 p.m., a three vehicle crash near mile marker 432 on Interstate 90 outside of Laurel took the life of a Joliet man and injured his daughter. The drivers of the other two vehicles were also injured. The road was clear and dry at the time. Alcohol, drugs and speed are not suspected to have contributed to this horrific accident.
According to the Montana Highway Patrol report, a Freightliner was westbound on Interstate 90 when it “lost control and entered the median for an unknown reason.” The Freightliner continued into the eastbound lanes where it struck a Volkswagon Rabbit and then collided with the Chevy Suburban driven by Kevin Wilkerson of Joliet. Wilkerson, a Joliet EMT and firefighter died at the scene. His 16 year old daughter, Alyssa, was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Billings.
Alyssa’s aunt, Beth Hoferer, posted on her social media:
Luckily, Heather and Ty (who were also in the Suburban) suffered minor injuries and were released quickly. In the meantime, please know that we are grateful for your love and support during this time.
Carbon County first responders shared their condolences and support with the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office posting:
We would like to express our sincere condolences to the Wilkerson family, Joliet Fire & EMS families, friends and loved ones of Kevin. Kevin was an extraordinarily committed volunteer emergency responder, and made countless sacrifices to help those in need whenever the call for help came. You will be missed by all of us, Kevin.
And Red Lodge Fire and Rescue posting:
We are devastated to hear about Kevin’s passing. All of us at Red Lodge Fire Rescue send your family, friends, fellow first responders and the Joliet Community our heartfelt condolences and sympathies.
Rest easy brother, we’ll take it from here.
The family has set up a CaringBridge page for Alyssa where people can keep up with her progress and communicate their support. The latest CaringBridge entry reads:
Alyssa has healing more every day and is preparing for her transfer to Utah for her inpatient rehab. They are estimating 1-3 months of rehab before being able to return home.
We are all so appreciative of everyone who has reached out in support and sending their love.
Those wishing to help can send donations to: Wilkerson Family Medical Fund at The Bank of Joliet, PO Box 400, Joliet, MT 59041.
If you prefer to use Venmo you can send funds to Beth Hoferer and she will make sure the funds are deposited into that account. Venmo @BethHoferer.
If you would like to make a donation another way please contact Beth at 406-860-9853.