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.

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.

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.