Boy in critical condition, others hospitalized after crash

WASILLA — A crash on Bogard Road Friday sent numerous people to the hospital, including a local drama teacher and a 5-year-old boy in critical condition.

According to a press release from Alaska State Troopers, the crash was reported at 11:03 p.m. near Merciful Circle. A 2005 Ford Taurus heading westbound lost control on icy roads, crossed the centerline and hit a 2010 Toyota Prius heading eastbound.

Two helicopters and two ambulances went to the scene. Weather forced the choppers back, and one of them landed at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.

Inside the Prius were Dewayne Joehnk, 56, a drama teacher at Wasilla High School, Beatrice Joehnk, 53, Georgia Joehnk, 13, and Austin Ervine, 5.

They were taken to the hospital.

“Once stabilized enough for transport and when weather allowed, Ervine was air-lifted to Providence (Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage), where he was listed in critical condition,” troopers report.

The driver of the Taurus, Michael Weetman, 26, of Palmer, was treated at Mat-Su Regional for minor injuries.

“No alcohol or drug impairment is suspected at this time and a combination of icy/poor road conditions and driving too fast for conditions are believed to be contributing factors in the collision,” the report says.