An eight-year-old boy has tragically died following a suspected accidental drowning during a World Cup viewing party in California.
Incident details
Taylor Thach stopped responding to his surroundings at a friend's house in El Segundo, California, where people had gathered to watch a football match. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 7:30 pm on June 12, according to news outlet NeedToKnow.
Medical crews performed emergency first aid at the house before rushing the boy to Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigation
El Segundo Police Department's Investigations Lieutenant, Eric Atkinson, stated that current indications point towards an accidental drowning, though an autopsy is still pending. Police are gathering statements from attendees of the World Cup watch party.
Community response
A GoFundMe page has been launched to support Taylor's family. The initial target of $5,000 has been surpassed, with over $83,000 raised in just four days. The funds will go directly to his mother Sokunthea, father Somnang, and brother Jordan Thach.
Taylor is remembered for his 'kind heart and friendly spirit'. A neighbor who created the fundraiser said: 'It is with unimaginable sadness and heartbreak that we share the loss of Taylor Thach, a beloved Center Street School student, who tragically passed away following an accidental drowning.'
'Taylor had been a Cougar since kindergarten and was a beloved member of the school community. He was known for his kind heart and friendly spirit. Affectionate and polite, he often went out of his way to ask others how they were doing or to wish them a good day. He brought joy to those around him.'
'As a community, we are struggling to make sense of such a devastating loss. The El Segundo Families have always shown up for one another in times of need, and we know so many people are asking how they can help.'
'This GoFundMe is one small way we can come together to support the Thach family during the most difficult time of their lives. All funds raised will go directly to the family to help ease immediate expenses and allow them the space and time they need to focus on healing and honoring Taylor's memory.'
'Please keep the Thach family, Taylor's classmates, teachers, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. If you are able, any contribution - no matter the amount - is deeply appreciated. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Taylor's memory alive means just as much. Taylor was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.'
