SALT LAKE CITY — A 3-year-old boy who survived a horrifying car accident on Christmas Eve that claimed the life of his brother and severely injured his parents was released from the hospital Monday, the family said.
Finn Pack was released from care at Primary Children's Medical Center on his mother's birthday and one day before his parents underwent hours of surgery, according to a blog maintained by family members.
"They are still in a lot of pain, both physically and emotionally," the blog stated Tuesday.
Ryan and Kelly Pack and their two children, Finn, 3, and Colum, 18 months, of American Fork, were traveling in a station wagon near 9000 South and 1000 West about 6 p.m. Saturday when an SUV jumped a median and crashed head-on into their car.
Police reported that the family's vehicle caught fire after impact. There has been no indication as to what caused the driver of the SUV to cross the median, but he also sustained severe injuries. Officials said Tuesday that it is "unknown" whether criminal charges will be filed against the driver in connection with the crash.
Colum Pack passed away around 9 p.m. on Christmas Day. The blog reported that he died in his parents arms after it was determined his spinal injuries were too severe to try and repair.
"He was always bent on making you smile or making you laugh," Kelly Pack's brother, Scott Jacob, said of Colum on Monday. "He gave the best hugs to let you know he loved you."
The family has organized a candlelight vigil on Dec. 28. It will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the family's home in American Fork, located at 178 N. 400 East.
The family has set up a Paypal account to help with the couple's medical expenses that can be found on their blog, kellypack.com. They have also set up an account for Colum Pack at America First Credit Union, in addition to one that was set up at the Bank of American Fork for the entire Pack family.
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