A 3-year-old Georgia boy died in a heartbreaking swimming pool accident after officials said the life vest he was wearing was not strapped correctly.
The child, identified by his school as James, drowned in a home swimming pool in Bleckley County, located in central Georgia, on Sunday.
Bleckley County Coroner Michael Francis described the boy’s death as a “freak, tragic accident,” according to WGXA.
Officials said James had been wearing a flotation device at the time, but it was not properly secured between his legs. Francis told the outlet that the life vest was not strapped the way it needed to be to keep the toddler safely above water.
The Bleckley County Sheriff’s Office later issued a warning to families after the devastating loss.
“Please use this tragic event as a reminder to be extra vigilant with pool safety around children,” the sheriff’s office said.
Bleckley County Primary School identified the child as James and said the school community was “heartbroken” by his death.
In a touching statement, the school remembered James for his “beautiful smile, joyful spirit, and precious personality.”
“There are simply no words to ease the pain of such a tragic loss,” the school wrote.
“Though his time here was far too short, the memories of his sweet smile and the joy he brought will forever be treasured.”
The tragedy is a painful reminder of how quickly pool accidents can happen, even when a child appears to be wearing safety gear.
Drowning remains the No. 1 cause of death in the United States for children ages 1 to 4, making constant supervision and properly fitted flotation devices critical around pools and open water.
For James’ family, classmates, and community, the loss is unimaginable. What should have been an ordinary day near the water ended in heartbreak for everyone who loved him.
