Boyfriend of woman killed by wrong-way driver gifted new 4Runner in show of community support

Bozeman, Montana – Kody Pullen says he lost his love Laysa Grewell, and he has a long road of recovery ahead of him. January. Since then, the neighborhood has come together to support Kody; in fact, a local company recently gave him a present that will change his life.

“I think about her every day still,” said Kody. “I wish she was here with me.”

Laysa Grewell, 22, was driving along I-90 on her way home from work on January 4. At that moment, she was fatally hit by a motorist who was traveling the wrong way.

Since then, Kody has been taking care of Everest, his and Laysa’s daughter, who turned one year old the day after her mother was killed, while also coping with his sadness.

“I’m grateful for this community that I have because they’ve given me so much support,” said Kody. “Stephanie has given me support.”

Bozeman-based country singer Stephanie Quayle learned of Laysa’s untimely demise. At that point, she decided to reach out to Kody and provide assistance.

“We started talking about the car situation,” said Stephanie. “I was like, we gotta get you a car.”

She then contacted Jenny Walby, the general manager of Ressler Toyota.

“I was able to learn about their story and the tragedy. They were displaced because their only vehicle was destroyed in the crash,” said Walby.

Kody received a brand-new Toyota 4Runner from Ressler Toyota on February 2.

“Stephanie called me and said, ‘Are you sitting on the ground?’ I said yes, and she told me that I was getting a new car,” said Kody. “I’m still in shock. This is the first time I’ve ever had a new car.”

Kody describes it as a kind present from the community as well as a new, secure mode of transportation for him and Everest.

“I think this will bring me peace knowing we are safe,” said Kody.

However, he acknowledges that he still has a long way to go in his recovery.

“I have a long way to go, but I’m grateful for everyone’s kindness. It gives me strength,” Kody said.

Kody expresses his aspirations for recovery and happiness as he considers raising Everest without the love of his life.

“Happy memories, change, and justice,” said Kody. “And to let Everest know that her mom loved her very much. That’s all I want.”