Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaquil Barrett’s 2-year-old daughter reportedly drowned over the weekend in the family’s swimming pool at their home.
The Tampa Bay Times reported that police responded to the home on Sunday morning after receiving a call about a child who had fallen into a pool.
First responders deployed lifesaving measures on Arrayah Barrett, who was rushed to the hospital but was later pronounced deceased, the report said.
The report said that no foul play is suspected and that officials said that the incident is being viewed as an accident.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family,” the team said in a statement. “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.”
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) April 30, 2023
The report noted that Barrett and his wife Jordana share three other children together: Shaquil Jr., Braylon, Aaliyah.
ESPN noted that the 30-year-old linebacker is in his fifth season with team and has been named to the Pro Bowl twice. He led the NFL in sacks in 2019 with 19.5.
Former NFL running back Peyton Hillis, who was on the cover of the 2012 Madden NFL video game, released a statement back in February after being hospitalized following a swimming accident, saying that he was thankful for everyone’s love and support as he recovers.
Hillis, 36, was rushed to the hospital in early January in critical condition after he reportedly saved his children from drowning in the ocean. ESPN said that the incident involved two adults and two children.
“I just wanted to come on here and thank everyone for all the prayers and love y’all have given me,” Hillis wrote on social media. “It’s really made all the difference. I also want to thank my brave sister, mother, sister in law, my kids, and my girlfriend who has saved my life in more ways than one. Thank you to the amazing staff at the hospital. Baptist hospital in Pensacola. Y’all were truly amazing and took such great care of me. You made all the difference on my recovery.”
Hillis said that he has not given any media interviews because he wanted to keep his family out of the public since the incident was a “very traumatic” experience for everyone involved.
“But I did want to come on here and show my appreciation for everyone who helped save my life and for all of your prayers and love and support,” he added. “I left the hospital with no worries and concerns and should make a 100% recovery. I’m a very lucky and blessed man. Yahweh has really blessed me and I am very thankful.”