JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A tragic event occurred Friday evening when a father and his young son were fatally struck while crossing Baymeadows Road after attending an event with several families.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office reported that the duo was hit by a Honda Civic near Goodbys Creek, just east of San Jose Boulevard, at approximately 8:30 p.m. Jacksonville Fire and Rescue officials confirmed that both victims were deceased at the location of the accident.

A witness named Travis Akers, who is acquainted with the grieving wife and mother, Mary, shared more insights about the incident on his Facebook page. He also posted a picture of the family, though First Coast News chose to obscure the face of the toddler to protect his privacy due to his young age.

Akers said he’s not ready to speak about the crash, but did send First Coast News this personal statement: 

“Even after 20 years in the military, nothing can prepare you for the horrific tragedy we witnessed last night. My heart is absolutely broken for Mary, and the family and loved ones of Mitch and baby Everett. As a parent, I cannot even begin to comprehend the level of pain and loss this family is experiencing. Mary is a special human, with a passion for life, and immeasurable love for her husband and baby. I would ask the community to continue to pour their support and love into Mary’s life as she begins to rebuild her heart and heal.”

Mary’s gym community at Burn Boot Camp Mandarin started a GoFundMe page for the family, which has raised nearly $40,000 as of Saturday evening. 

An email obtained by First Coast News confirmed that Mitch was a teacher at Bayview Elementary.