9-Year-Old 'Angel' Dies from Falling Tree While Fleeing Storm, People Rally Support for Her Family

No parent should have to bury their child, but sadly it is a reality for many moms and dads. One family tried to escape a devastating storm, but things spiraled out of control quickly.

They say time heals all wounds, but the pain of losing a loved one is something that leaves a mark on one's life forever.

A freak accident caused a family from Poland, Maine, unimaginable anguish. Their story will inspire you to cherish and value those closest to you.

A KIND AND LOVABLE LITTLE GIRL

Hallie Oldham was a lovable nine-year-old girl who enjoyed spending time with her friends and eating lots of ice cream. Her favorite flavor was sweet strawberry and rainbow sprinkles.

The family shared that they never got the chance to leave the camping grounds because the gale-force winds and the powerful storm uprooted two large pine trees.

Hallie also had a passion for sports and excelled in various fields. She was known for always having a smile on her face, but sadly her time on earth was cut short.

A PARENT'S WORST NIGHTMARE

In July 2022, Hallie's parents, Jarod and Jennifer Oldham, packed their belongings and tried to escape a terrible storm that had hit Poland in Maine.

The couple was spending some time at the Sebago Lake Campground with their two daughters and never knew their worst nightmare was about to come true.

THE FATAL ACCIDENT

The family shared that they never got the chance to leave the camping grounds because the gale-force winds and the powerful storm uprooted two large pine trees.

One of the trees hit the Oldhams' camper and "crushed" the truck. However, it was the second tree that caused the life-changing damage. It struck the family vehicle while three of them were inside.

Hallie, her younger sister, and their mom faced the blow of the uprooted tree, and sadly it proved to be a fatal incident. While Jennifer and her young child survived, Hallie didn't make it.

THE MIRACLE

Emergency teams struggled to reach the scene of the accident due to the devastation caused by the storm. Roads were blocked, and the rain hampered their rescue efforts, but they did their best.

The storm also wrecked two of the family vehicles and ruined the campsite. The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office wrote:

"Given the extent of destruction surrounding the Oldhams' vehicles and their campsite, this horrific tragedy also proved to be a miracle that the rest of the family survived this incident."

SHE TOUCHED MANY LIVES

The community came together to support the Oldham family in their time of grief. Hallie was remembered as a girl with no fear and someone who, despite her age, already managed to "[touch] every life she met." Members of her basketball team said:

"She was everything you want in a teammate and player: smart, gritty, a team player, and extremely kind-hearted."

SHE WILL BE MISSED

There was no doubt the youngster would be missed, not only because of her positive energy but because of the love she showed to everyone around her. The Poland Parks and Recreation Department added:

"You can tell she loved sports and poured her all into performing and trying. We will miss her kind heart, bright smile, and determination on and off the field/court."

SUPPORT FOR THE HEARTBROKEN FAMILY

A GoFundMe page was created to support the Oldham family in their time of need, and many people were eager to honor the "angel" and her parents.

By the end of July 2022, more than $76,000 had been donated. The story undeniably touched many hearts and made people remember just how fleeting life can be.

COMMENTS FROM USERS

Tributes for Hallie streamed in, and many people offered prayers and condolences. Users said:

"No parent should have to experience this tragedy. May your little girl shine down on you daily and give you the strength to move forward in this unimaginable time of grief."

- (Kelly and Dale Gregory) July 26, 2022

"We are so very sorry. Our deepest condolences to your family. The Caminiti Family."

- (Gina Caminiti) July 26, 2022

"I didn't know this sweet little angel. [The] parents are heartbroken for the rest of their lives. She looked so sweet as well. A horrible tragedy. Prayers for you all, sweet angel."

- (Kathy B) July 24, 2022

Hallie's life was short but impactful, and her story encourages us to forget the small stuff and focus on loving our nearest and dearest—while they are still around.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Oldham family as they deal with the pain of this heartbreaking tragedy.

Click here for another story about a mom who lost her daughter, but found something special a few months after the accident. The discovery helped her heal and process her devastating grief.