Anish Vij
As a parent, there is nothing more devastating than losing your child.
Birdie Howell, five, was killed in a 'unexpected, tragic, stupid accident' while visiting her grandparents in Idaho.
During her last trip of the summer before starting school, she was hit by 'a car at low speeds by a close family member and died on the way to the hospital', according to a GoFundMe page set up by her uncle, JT Abbott.
The incident happened 30 minutes from her grandparent's house on Friday (18 August), Fox 12 reports.
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While on holiday, she'd written a special note for her father, Scott Howell.
Taking to social media, Scott shared the note written by his daughter, who he called 'adorable'.
Addressed to 'dade', the note read: "I miss you so much.
"When I see you, I will be so happy!
"I love you! Love Birdie!!!"
In the GoFundMe post, Abbott described Birdie as a 'beautiful, silly, bad-ass five-year-old girl'.
"She was looking forward to her rainbow cake for her birthday this week and starting first grade," the post continued.
"She was a social butterfly, an incredible goofball, and was special to every single person who met her.
"She hiked in dresses and had a lisp and a generous heart."
Birdie leaves behind two older brothers who will 'miss her forever'.
Abbott wrote: "There is loss all around us, but there is something particularly heavy about an unexpected, tragic, stupid accident to a dear girl who was a light in the world.
"We're asking for a general fund that can be used and applied toward extra child care so her parents can seek therapy, food delivery plans, household cleaning services, and expenses for a trip to a few of the family's favorite vacation/camping spots around their state as they say goodbye to her in their close special spaces."
After donating $100, one person wrote: "Birdie was such a joy, the sweetest girl with the funniest personality. I’m devastated by this news. Sending all our love to your family."
"My heart absolutely breaks for you and your family," another added.
"I lost my son in this same tragic way, and it’s something I wish no one else would have to go through.
"I’m praying for your family."
At the time of writing, $28,955 has been raised from a $20,000 target.
You can donate to the GoFundMe here.
Tyla has reached out to Idaho State Police for comment.