An eight-year-old child has tragically lost his life in what police believe was an accidental drowning during a World Cup gathering, leaving his family devastated.
Young Taylor Thach became unresponsive whilst attending a party with friends at a residential property in El Segundo, California.
Emergency services hurried to the address at approximately 7:30pm on 12 June after receiving a call, according to reports from NeedToKnow.
Paramedics performed emergency first aid at the scene before rushing the boy to the Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre, where he was tragically pronounced dead.
Eric Atkinson, the Investigations Lieutenant from El Segundo Police Department, reportedly claimed that 'every sign points to accidental drowning'. However, he also confirmed that an autopsy had not been conducted at this point in time.
Police are still gathering statements from attendees of the World Cup watch party.
The community have now launched a GoFundMe page for Taylor's loved ones to help with the heartbreak. The $5,000 target has been absolutely smashed with over $83,000 already raised in just four days. The money will go directly to his mother Sokunthea, father Somnang, and brother Jordan Thach.
Taylor is remembered for his 'kind heart and friendly spirit'. A neighbour who created the fundraiser stated: '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.'
