The mother of the Los Angeles woman who tragically killed her husband and baby before taking her own life in a 100mph head-on crash has revealed her daughter battled “legions of demons.”
Danielle Johnson, 34, fatally attacked her Air Force veteran partner, Jaelen Allen Chaney, 29, and their eight-month-old baby at their apartment in Woodland Hills, California, on April 8.
She then fled the scene with her two daughters, pushing both of them out of the car on the 405 Freeway. Tragically, the infant was struck and killed by another vehicle, while her nine-year-old sister managed to make it to the side of the road and call for help.
Johnson’s mother, Sharonda Cole, disclosed that her daughter was grappling with mental health challenges, “low-vibrational energy,” and postpartum depression. Johnson had shared a series of disturbing posts on social media, including mentions of an imminent apocalypse and the spiritual significance of a solar eclipse.
Despite her spiritual claims and popularity as a “reiki master teacher,” Johnson’s mother indicated that she was struggling with inner demons and mental health issues. Cole had attempted to encourage Johnson to seek help from a therapist or reiki healer, but Johnson was adept at masking her struggles.
Johnson’s tumultuous upbringing, compounded by her mother’s struggles with addiction, may have contributed to her emotional turmoil. She began to explore reiki healing, seeking to heal not only her own wounds but also those of her family.
However, unresolved issues and postpartum depression continued to plague Johnson, leading to tragic consequences.
Los Angeles Police Department officials provided further details of the incident, revealing that Johnson and Chaney were involved in a heated argument before the violence ensued.
Chaney, known for his caring nature and devotion to Johnson’s older child, was described as outgoing and loving. His tragic death has left his loved ones grappling with grief and loss.
In the wake of this devastating event, Cole and others close to the family are left to grapple with the aftermath and the painful realization of the struggles Johnson faced.
