An 8-year-old boy has tragically lost his life at a World Cup watch party in what police believe was an accidental drowning. Taylor Thach became unresponsive during a gathering at a friend's house to watch the World Cup in El Segundo, California.
Incident Details
At around 7:30 p.m. on June 12, emergency responders rushed to the property where Taylor was found. Crews attempted life-saving measures before rushing the child to a nearby hospital. The harrowing incident occurred at a friend's home in El Segundo. Taylor was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre, where he sadly passed away.
Eric Atkinson, Investigations Lieutenant at El Segundo Police Department, reportedly stated that every sign points to accidental drowning, though he confirmed that an autopsy had yet to be carried out at that stage. Officers are continuing to take statements from those who attended the World Cup watch party.
Community Support
The local community has since launched a GoFundMe page to support Taylor's devastated family. The $5,000 target has been dramatically surpassed, with more than $83,000 raised in just four days. All funds go directly to his mother Sokunthea, father Somnang, and brother Jordan Thach.
Taylor has been fondly remembered for his kind heart and friendly spirit. A neighbour who set up 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," the neighbour added.
"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."
