Family release devastating statement after boy, 3, crushed to death by park monument
The family of a three-year-old boy crushed by a park monument have released a heartbreaking statement after a lawsuit was officially launched.
Kaleb Ortega was with his sister and his dad in Walla Walla, Washington back in April when tragedy struck, as he was fatally injured when a monument fell on top of him.
If the emotional trauma wasn't already enough for the family, Kaleb was also transported by ambulance to the very hospital where his mother Claudia was working as a nurse.
Sadly, the toddler's injuries proved to be too severe and he would pass away later that day, leaving a huge hole in the family's life as they struggle to comprehend a future without their 'joyful, busy little boy who filled every moment with life'.
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The fundraiser reads: “On what started as a normal, happy day filled with play, an unimaginable accident occurred that took Kaleb from us far too soon. No one could have anticipated the heartbreak that would follow. While we are overwhelmed with grief, we are also holding tightly to the countless beautiful memories he gave us memories that feel like precious gifts.”
Kaleb's family are also confirmed to be suing multiple companies involved in the construction of the edifice for emotional-distress damages, according to a lawsuit that was obtained by the Union Bulletin.
The monument at the Capt. Albert H. Rooks/USS Houston CA-30 memorial was most recently renovated in 2019 but the lawsuit maintains that it was heavy, unstable and lacked warnings about its potential to be a hazard.
The fundraiser added: "While we are overwhelmed with grief, we are also holding tightly to the countless beautiful memories he gave us memories that feel like precious gifts.
"He was always on the move, happiest when he was playing, exploring, and especially when he was with his big sister, his best friend," the page read.
"The two of them spent hours together, laughing, playing, and making memories that their family will hold onto forever."
Since its creation, the fundraiser has gone on to raise close to $60,000, which will go towards the family's funeral costs and other expenses 'during this period of grief'.
It concludes: "All donations will go directly toward supporting Kaleb’s immediate family and the expenses associated with this tragedy, including memorial arrangements, travel, time away from work, and ongoing family needs during this period of grief and healing. I will personally ensure that funds are transferred directly to the family and used solely for the purposes outlined in this fundraiser.
"This fundraiser was created out of love for Kaleb and his family during an unimaginable time. Our hope is to ease even a small portion of the emotional and financial burden they are carrying so they can focus on grieving, healing, and being together as a family. Every donation, prayer, message, and act of support means more than words can express. We are deeply grateful for the kindness and compassion being shown to our family."
It is unclear at this time how much the family is seeking in compensation.
Topics: News
James Moorhouse