Anthony Mitchell, from a post dated January 10, 2025 | Source: Facebook/hajime.white
Anthony’s daughter, Hajime White, revealed that her father had been waiting for an ambulance to evacuate him and Justin from their home in Altadena, California, but it never arrived. Authorities informed Hajime that Anthony was found beside Justin’s bed. Justin, who was in his early 20s, had cerebral palsy, and Hajime believes her father was trying to save him.
“He was not going to leave his son behind. No matter what,” said Hajime, who is a Doula in Warren, Arkansas. Her father, whom she described as a bighearted man, was aged 67. He was a retired salesman and an amputee who used a wheelchair.
Anthony Mitchell, from a post dated January 10, 2025 | Source: Facebook/hajime.white
Hajime also recalled the conversation she had with her dad the day they were meant to evacuate. “He said, ‘Baby, I’m just letting you know the fire’s broke out, and we’re going to have to evacuate. Then he said, ‘I’ve got to go — the fire’s in the yard,'” narrated Hajime.
Sadly, Anthony and Justin never made it out. Anthony’s other son, Jordan, who is also in his 20s and lived with the family, was in the hospital at the time of the tragedy.
Anthony Mitchell, from a post dated January 10, 2025 | Source: Facebook/hajime.white
Justin, who read and communicated through a computer due to his disability, was Hajime’s half-brother. Both Justin and Anthony will be deeply missed by their extended family.
Anthony was a father to four kids and had 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Hajime’s family, who are based in Arkansas, referred to Anthony as “FaFa,” short for far away. Anthony also treasured his grandkids and gave them nicknames to remember them by. “Strawberry Shortcake, Marshmallow, Bug, he just went on and on,” shared Hajime.