TOMS RIVER – A 4-year-old girl is fighting for her life after a major car crash on Route 70 left her critically injured.
A GoFundMe campaign was created for Isabella, who has to undergo several surgeries in order to recover from the injuries she sustained from the crash.
On March 23, a Jackson man with a suspended license ran a red light at the intersection on Route 70 and Massachusetts Avenue. As a result, he hit a Subaru Impreza that Isabella was riding in. Two other children and the driver were also injured but not as seriously. At this time, authorities have not identified them.
Police said Charles Sharkey, Jr., 33, of Jackson was driving erratically and using his phone before the crash. He had a suspended license and two active warrants. The truck he was driving was a rental vehicle taken without the renter’s consent.
Sharkey was arrested and charged with four counts of Aggravated Assault, four counts of Assault by Auto, Unlawful Taking of a Means of Conveyance, Causing Death or Injury While Driving with a Suspended or Revoked Driver’s License, and multiple motor vehicle summons. Pending the lab results of his blood, there might be more charges.
Gabby Koehler, Isabella’s aunt who created the GoFundMe, said Isabella is a “smart, sassy, beautiful little girl that loves nothing more than dancing and smiling.”
Isabella received her first brain surgery and she is currently awaiting several more surgeries.
“Isabella is currently in critical condition in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit being the strong brave little girl that she is, fighting so hard,” Koehler said. “No child deserves to go through this, nor should any mother or father have to see their child like this. We appreciate any support that is given right now. Please continue to pray for our little princess.”
Currently, the GoFundMe has raised over $49,000, almost reaching their goal of $50,000. To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/much-needed-support-for-isabella.
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