The ongoing devastation from the LA wildfires is overwhelming, as more lives are lost and homes destroyed with each passing day.
Among the 24 who tragically lost their lives amid the chaos were a father, Anthony Mitchell, and his young son, Justin. In their attempt to escape the encroaching flames, they could not flee to safety in time, leaving their family heartbroken and grieving.
Anthony’s daughter, Hajime White, shared the heartrending story of her family’s ordeal. Her father was awaiting an ambulance for evacuation. Sadly, help never arrived. As they tried to leave their home in Altadena, California, Anthony and Justin found themselves overtaken by the rapidly spreading blaze.
Authorities informed White that Anthony was found near Justin’s bed. Justin, who had cerebral palsy and was in his early 20s, likely passed away while his father, determined to save him, stayed by his side.
White shared, “He was not going to leave his son behind. No matter what.” She described her 67-year-old father as a compassionate man, living a retired life despite being an amputee reliant on a wheelchair.
In her last conversation with him the day before the evacuation attempt, her father had mentioned the approaching danger, saying, “The fire’s in the yard. We have to leave.” Regrettably, Anthony and Justin never made it out alive.
Another son, Jordan, also in his 20s, is currently hospitalized due to the fire’s effects, adding to the family’s trials.
Communicating through a computer due to his disability, Justin was a vital member of the family. Half-brother to White, both he and Anthony will be sorely missed by their loved ones.
Anthony leaves behind a large family, including four children, 11 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren, all whom cherished him dearly.
In the wake of her profound loss, White expressed how deeply her father’s passing has affected her. She awaits further news from family in Los Angeles to safely travel and arrange her father’s and brother’s funerals, a task heavy with sorrow yet driven by love.
