MHP Trooper Lewis Johnson Thanks Those Who Saved His Life

KALISPELL - Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson has been transferred to a health care facility in Denver to continue his recovery from severe injuries suffered in the line of duty two weeks ago.

On Sunday, the Highway Patrol, Attorney General Austin Knudsen and local agencies held a rally at Logan Health in Kalispell, to show support for Trooper Johnson and his family, and to recognize the emergency responders and medical care team who saved his life.

Dr. Erik Peltz, director of surgical services, said Johnson arrived in the emergency room with multiple cracked ribs, a punctured lung, several internal injuries, and a fractured spine. After emergency surgery, he spent several days on life support in the intensive care unit. Dr. Peltz called his recovery to date "amazing."

"Trooper Lewis is remarkable." he told the crowd. "His wife, Kate, is remarkable."

Johnson was able to attend the rally for a few minutes and speak to the crowd. He said he's in a lot of physical and emotional pain, but " I wanted to come down here personally and thank you, and show you I am here. I am fighting, but it's going to be a long fight...very, very long."

(Click HERE to watch the full video.)
On Tuesday, February 28, 2023, dozens of law enforcement vehicles escorted an ambulance from the hospital to Glacier Park International Airport, where an ALERT medical plane was waiting to take Johnson to Denver.

A GoFundMe account set up for the Johnson family has reached over $202,000 as of this morning.

Johnson grew up in Chester, and the community has rallied to support his recovery, as well.

On Sunday, March 19, a benefit concert will be held at the Chester United Methodist Church, at 4:00pm, featuring pianist Peter Shea of East Glacier, Stephanie Smith and Family, and the Celtic Highlanders.

Cards and letters of support and encouragement may be sent to Lewis & Kate Johnson at P.O. Box 356 Chester, MT 59522