Father of accident victim: She was an angel on earth who loved everyone - East Idaho News
Blackfoot

Father of accident victim: She was an angel on earth who loved everyone

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BLACKFOOT — A 7-year-old girl who was killed during a recent automobile accident is being remembered as “an angel on earth who loved everyone she encountered.”

Madelyn Holbrook, a second grader at Stoddard Elementary in Blackfoot School District 55, will be laid to rest this morning in Blackfoot.

Madelyn was traveling on I-15 with her mother, Elena Holbrook, and three siblings on Nov. 25 when the accident happened. Police say the driver of a semi-truck lost control of the vehicle after a tire blew. The semi crossed the median and slammed into the Holbrook’s pickup truck.

Police say Madelyn died instantly. Elena was airlifted to Portneuf Medical Center where her husband, Ashton Holbrook, said she’s doing well.

holbrook fam

“Elena has had multiple procedures by skilled doctor’s and will be released soon,” Holbrook told EastIdahoNews.com.

Holbrook said his family appreciates the support they’ve received over the past week. A GoFundMe account was set up the day after the crash and nearly $30,000 has been donated to pay for medical bills and funeral expenses.

“My wife and I are so grateful for the outpouring of love and support that this community has provided,” Holbrook said. “We have been humbled by the love and concern.”

madelyn holbrook 2

Madelyn, who went by Maddy, was an “amazing big sister” to her three younger siblings. Holbrook said she loved to draw, paint and sew and that her smile would light up a room.

“Wherever she went, happiness and light followed her,” Holbrook said. “She was an example of having Christ-like love for everyone she encountered.”

Holbrook said he hopes his daughter’s death reminds others to not take life for granted.

“The best tribute to come from this tragedy would be for parents to hug their children tighter and for our community to love and serve each other more,” Holbrook said.

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