Heartbreaking Final Moments: A Father's Last Call

January 8th was an ordinary workday for Hajime White, a doula from Warren, Arkansas. As she logged into her computer at 8:10 a.m., her life changed irrevocably with a call from her father, Anthony Mitchell. He informed her that they needed to evacuate due to the rapidly spreading wildfires. Anthony, a 67-year-old retired salesman who had lost his left leg to diabetes, lived with his son Justin, who had cerebral palsy. Both were wheelchair-bound, making evacuation particularly challenging.

Anthony’s voice conveyed urgency as he told Hajime, “Baby, I’m just letting you know that the fires broke out and we’re going to have to evacuate.” After expressing his love, he abruptly ended the call, saying, “The fire just came in the yard.” Those were the last words Hajime would hear from her father. She frantically checked news updates, hoping against hope that they could escape the flames.

Devastation Strikes: The Unthinkable Reality

Just two hours later, at 10:11 a.m., Hajime received a phone call that shattered her world. Her father and brother were both dead. The realization hit her like a ton of bricks. “I lost it. I just started screaming,” Hajime recalls. Anthony, affectionately known as "Fa-Fa" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was a beloved figure in the family. His love for his children and grandchildren was unwavering, and he always put their needs before his own.

Hajime remembers fondly how her father and brother would read the newspaper together. Even with his limitations, Justin tried his best to express his love during their conversations. The loss of these two phenomenal individuals has left an indelible mark on the family. Hajime struggles to comprehend the events that unfolded after her father’s final call. She wonders why the caregiver who was supposed to assist them wasn’t present and why no one came to their rescue.

Unanswered Questions: Searching for Closure

Anthony had made several calls to family members that morning, seeking help. He was reportedly waiting for an ambulance, but tragically, it never arrived in time. Hajime’s aunt informed her that Anthony was supposed to come to her house, but he never made it. Family members believe he was attempting to ensure his son’s safety before evacuating. Hajime is haunted by questions about what transpired during those critical moments. “Where was everyone?” she asks, grappling with the possibility that her father and brother could have been saved.

Hajime’s emotions are a complex mix of grief, anger, and confusion. She doesn’t know how to process the overwhelming loss. Despite the unanswered questions, she finds solace in the memories of her father’s love and devotion. “When I look in the mirror, I see my dad,” she says. “I know my daddy is still with me.” Hajime holds onto the belief that her father would never leave Justin behind. “Daddy was going to be like, ‘No, not until I get my babies.’ That’s the type of person my daddy was,” she reflects.