Hundreds come to support Johnson family

WILSON, N.Y. (WIVB) - Hundreds of people came together in Wilson to show their support for the Johnson family.

The bleachers were packed Tuesday night at Wilson High School's football stadium, where hundreds came to wrap their arms around a family that has lost so much. Only 12 hours after the house explosion on Chestnut Road in Wilson claimed the life of 14-year-old Sarah Johnson and injured members of her family, more than a thousand people showed up to hug one another and support the family.

Vigil organizer Jamie Moxhan said, "By eight o'clock, people were making phone calls. By nine o'clock, we were meeting and a bank account was opened up. By 9:30, everyone was just all surrounding each other."

News of the explosion spread quickly. Many are just trying to comprehend what happened.

>> Full Coverage: See photos of the explosion, the victims, and the vigil. Listen to audio of crews learning of the devastation. Read stories about the community coming together for the Johnson family. And find out how you can help.

"I didn't think it could happen to someone so godly, such a good family. You don't think, you just wake up and hear it. And what are you supposed to think?" said Megan Bucker.

Laura Couturier said, "She was my best friend. I miss her so much."

The Johnsons have only been members of the Wilson community for about four years. But already, hundreds have come forward offering food, shelter, money, clothing - anything the family might need.

"When something bad happens in this town, everybody pulls together, no matter what," said Katie Magoon. "Even if some people only knew her for [a short time], maybe talked to her once or twice, everybody feels it because we're all so close."

Prayers were voiced, mementos were left, and parents hugged their children tightly, pondering the questions still swirling about the explosion. But no matter how long the road ahead is for the Johnsons, the community is letting them know that they will be there.