The sports world is sharing their grief and their condolences after news reports revealed Shaquil Barrett’s 2-year-old daughter, Arrayah, has passed away.
Barrett is a linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs confirmed the devastating news in a statement released on April 30, TMZ reports.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family. 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.”
According to police, Arrayah reportedly drowned in the family’s pool. She was transported to a local hospital on Sunday morning after it was reported that she fell into the water. The 2-year-old was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Police confirm that the investigation into the accident is ongoing. But preliminary results say that “the circumstances of the accident don’t appear to be suspicious in nature,” according to TMZ.
While neither Shaq nor his wife, Jordanna, have shared a statement yet, Shaq’s last post on his Instagram was a post celebrating Arrayah’s second birthday on April 19.
“Happy 2nd bday to my cutie girl. So sweet and cute. You made our family complete. I love you, baby girl!”
Several of his teammates, including Tom Brady, took to social media to offer their condolences to Shaq, Jordanna, and Arrayah’s three siblings. Along with a picture of the whole Barrett family, Brady wrote, “The Bradys love you,” with a red heart emoji.
Granger Smith, the country singer turned pastor who also lost one of his children in a drowning incident, also commented, writing, “Love you, brother.”
According to the CDC, in the United States, “more children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death. For children ages 5–14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.”
The CDC continues, confirming that “most drownings in children 1–4 happen in swimming pools.” Drownings are often silent and can happen in seconds, and it can happen to anyone.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Barrett family during this heartbreaking time.
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