Friends, family members, and members of the Montgomery County community are rallying around the family of 20-year-old Jacob James Hale following his death in a motorcycle crash early Sunday morning in Rockville.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help ease the financial burden on Hale’s family as they navigate an unimaginable loss. Organizers describe Hale as someone who was always willing to help others and who left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
“Jacob was the kind of person you could always count on, whether you needed a helping hand or someone to listen,” organizers wrote. “He was lovable, generous, and always ready to support those around him. He had a passion to help everyone around him and treat them well.”
According to the fundraiser, the money raised will help cover funeral expenses and other costs facing the family during this difficult time, allowing them to focus on honoring Hale’s memory rather than financial concerns.“His sudden passing in a motorcycle accident has left a massive void in all of our hearts, and the pain of losing him is something his family and friends are struggling to navigate,” organizers wrote.
Montgomery County police identified Hale, of Rockville, as the motorcyclist killed in a crash that occurred around 1:16am on June 21 near the intersection of Norbeck Road and Hannans Way.
According to the Montgomery County Department of Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, investigators determined that a black 2007 Honda CBR600 and a white and black 2006 Honda CBR600 were traveling together westbound on Norbeck Road when the motorcycles made contact with one another. Both riders lost control and left the roadway.
Police said Hale, who was operating the 2007 Honda CBR600, struck a curb and a traffic sign support. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The operator of the second motorcycle remained at the scene and was not injured. The investigation remains ongoing and could take several weeks to months to complete.
Those wishing to support the Hale family can do so through the GoFundMe campaign, which organizers say will help ensure Jacob receives a proper funeral and allow his family to focus on remembering and celebrating his life.