Caleb Isabell. COURTESY PHOTO, Isabell family

Caleb Isabell. COURTESY PHOTO, Isabell family

Fundraiser started for family of man killed in Kent car crash

Caleb Isabell, 33, left behind a wife and two children

A gofundme.com account has been started for the family of Caleb Isabell, 33, who died in a single-car crash Oct. 23 in Kent.

Kathy Prom started the fundraiser on behalf of Danita Hamptonie and her two children, ages 7 and 5, after the death of her husband.

“On the evening of Sunday, Oct. 23, the family received the horrific news that Caleb was involved in a fatal car crash early that morning,” Prom wrote on gofundme.com. “Caleb had just started his new job with Seattle Public Schools and was set to return to work on Monday (Oct. 24) after taking some time off to grieve the loss of his best friend just a few days prior.

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“Caleb worked two jobs to support his family, and now Danita is placed in a position to do it all on her own. She recently transitioned into a part-time role to accommodate their school schedules, which does not make her eligible for bereavement leave. So she is currently not receiving any pay while taking time off to mourn the sudden loss of her husband.

“Those who knew Caleb knew he was a big family man and loved spending quality time with his sons. Please consider donating to Caleb’s family so they have the support and time they need to heal and continue moving forward.”

At about 6:20 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, Isabell’s 2014 Dodge Charger struck a tree and caught fire in the 21700 block of 68th Avenue South, according to Kent Police.

Puget Sound Fire personnel arrived and found a fully engulfed car with Isabell still trapped inside, according to Kent Police. Isabell was alone in the car.

A 911 caller told police that he was driving southbound on 68th Avenue South when he noticed a car into a tree. He reported it was on fire and the driver was trapped. The man attempted to get the driver out but was driven back by the flames, according to police.

A memorial service for Isabell was on Oct. 31 at Tolliver Temple Church of God in Seattle.

Nakeya Isabell, a cousin of Caleb Isabell, posted on Facebook that she just saw Caleb the Friday before his death and hugged him.

“I told him I loved him, not knowing that would be the last time,” she said. “Caleb was such a positive person who would do anything for others. He was a present and active father. He was loved! Thank you for everyone who continues to show up. Caleb leaves a legacy of love, resiliency and service. We love you! I’m thankful for the time we had him on earth. He was truly born to shine!”


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