The 2-year-old daughter of NFL star Shaquil Barrett died after drowning in a swimming pool at the family’s home in Florida on Sunday.
Tampa Police Officers responded to the South Tampa home at around 9.30 am on Sunday after reports that Arrayah had fallen into a pool.
Despite life-saving efforts, she was later pronounced dead in hospital. Police say the death is not suspicious and believe the incident was accidental.
“It is not believed to be suspicious in nature at this time, but a purely accidental and tragic incident,” police said. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
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Barrett, a linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and his wife Jordanna met in high school and have three other children.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family,” the Buccaneers said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna, and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time.
“While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”
Tom Brady, 45, who recently retired after three seasons with the Buccaneers, posted a photo of the Barrett family on social media, writing, “The Bradys love you.”
Florida has a high rate of pool drownings, with an average of 100 deaths per year. This is due to a number of factors, including the state’s warm climate, which makes swimming a popular activity year-round, and the large number of residential pools in Florida.
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There are a number of things that can be done to prevent pool drownings, including:
- Enclosing the pool with a fence or barrier that is at least four feet high.
- Installing a pool alarm that will sound if someone falls into the pool.
- Keeping children under the age of five supervised at all times when they are near water.
- Teaching children how to swim and how to float.
- Removing any objects from the pool that could be used as a ladder, such as toys or chairs.
- Covering the pool when it is not in use.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help to keep your family safe from pool drownings.
Here are some additional tips for preventing pool drownings:
- Never leave children unattended around water, even for a moment.
- Make sure that all pool drains are covered with a mesh screen to prevent entrapment.
- Teach children how to swim and how to float.
- Have a first aid kit and CPR training on hand.
- If you see someone drowning, call 911 immediately.
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