QUEEN CREEK, Ariz. — A Queen Creek mother was a source of strength for her family and community.
Rachael Mumba Mungole, 43, was a wife and mother of four children. Those who knew her said she was well-known and respected among the Zambian community in the East Valley.
They now only have their shared memories.
Mongole was heading to work early on Sunday morning. She had just left her house and was approaching the intersection of Schnepf and Combs Road when she was struck by a suspected drunk driver, according to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Mungole was taken to the hospital but died of her injuries.
Her cousin, Kaluba Kapapula, said he and the rest of the family are still in shock that their loved one died in a preventable crash.
“It’s still sinking in,” Kapapula explained. “It’s one of those things you think she’s just gone somewhere, and she’ll be coming back, Mom will be coming back.”
He described Mungole as a loving mother who adored her children and husband. Who devoted time to serving her community and being a member of the church.
“Being in the presence of Rachel, there were no dull moments,” he recalled.
Her best friend, Zamiwe Sakala Mubukwanu, described the news of Mungole’s death as a nightmare from which she was attempting to wake.
“She was a light and source of joy for me and my family,” said Sakala Mubukwanu.
The Pinal County Regional Vehicular Crimes Task Force is investigating the crash. Cindy Chacon, 24, was arrested and is facing multiple charges as a “result of the investigation,” according to authorities.
- manslaughter
- DUI alcohol
- aggravated assault
- endangerment
The investigation is ongoing, according to authorities.
While the family is still dealing with the heartbreak, they have stated that they forgive the person responsible, believing that this is what Mungole would have wanted.
“I truly believe that the first thing she would have wanted us to do is forgive,” Sakala Mubukwanu explained.
“It’s not our place to judge,” Kapapula said. “We just pray that the legal process will take its course.”
The family of the victim has set up a GoFundMe to raise money for funeral expenses. You can find it by clicking here.
