Rebecca Case, Mother of Nine, Killed in Fiery Highway 385 Crash in Collierville; Driver Charged With DUI, Vehicular Homicide

COLLIERVILLE, Tenn. — A mother of nine was killed in a fiery crash on Highway 385 on Wednesday evening, leaving her husband, children and community grieving, according to the Collierville Police Department.
Police said the crash happened around 5:12 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, near the Progress Road overpass. Rebecca Case was driving home from work in a Honda CR-V that was stopped in traffic in an active construction zone when another vehicle struck it from behind. The impact pushed the CR-V forward and set off a four-vehicle chain-reaction crash. The CR-V caught fire with Case trapped inside, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. One other person suffered minor injuries.
Police arrested Derek Kyle Johnson, 37, of Arlington, and charged him with vehicular homicide, DUI, reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, a seat belt violation and an open container violation. His bond was set at $250,000. Charges are allegations.
Case was alone in the car, and her nine children, ages 4 to 18, were at home. Family friend Matthew Nowlin said she homeschooled them and ministered to young women and new mothers in the area. He said the community has been bringing food and support to her husband, Matt Case, and the children, and that their pastor noticed the children drawing strength from the faith their mother taught them.
May those who loved Rebecca find strength and comfort in the days ahead, and may her memory be honored through the family she devoted her life to.