'Apple of my eye': Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Shaquil Barrett's wife Jordanna opens up after daughter Arrayah, 2, dies in drowning accident
TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA: The family of Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaquil Barrett has spoken out following the death of his 2-year-old daughter Arrayah. On Sunday, April 30, the athlete and his wife Jordanna's youngest child drowned in a pool at the couple's Tampa Bay home. Arrayah was taken to a local hospital after officials arrived, where she was declared dead despite lifesaving procedures, according to the Tampa Police Department.
The incident occurred just a few days after Arrayah's birthday, on April 19. The death is being investigated by police, but it is thought to be an accident, according to the Daily Mail. In comparison to other states, Florida had the highest rate of unintentional drowning deaths among children 0 to 9 years old, 3.19 per 100,000 population, WTSP. Myra Santiago, 22, an Ormond Beach resident, was charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child and neglect of a child after her three-year-old son Azriyh drowned and died in a retention pond nearby just last April.
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What did Jordanna say?
Jordanna posted a message on Instagram regarding the devastating news on Wednesday, appreciating those who sent prayers out to the family during this difficult time. "Thank you all for all the messages, flowers, thoughts and prayers. Our world will never be the same," the heartbroken mother wrote. "Arrayah was the apple of my eye, and my heart will forever be with hers. I love you so much, my baby. I am so, so sorry. Until we see each other again, please watch over your siblings and momma and dada," she went on. "We love you forever and ever and always. I can't wait to see that precious smile again, and just hug you so close. I wish we had more time. I love you."
'Her endearing nature was so kind'
The toddler was described in Arrayah's obituary as having "sparkle in her eyes that drew your attention," and Jordanna also provided a link to it. She had such a charming and engaging personality. "Her endearing nature was so kind and magnetic."
Official announcement of Arrayah's death
The Buccaneers made an official Twitter announcement following the news of Arrayah's death. "Today's tragic news is heartbreaking for all the members of the Buccaneers family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time," the statement said. "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."
'The Brady's love you'
Tom Brady, the former quarterback of the Buccaneers, also sent his sympathy. He shared a picture on his Instagram Story of a beaming Barrett, wearing the team's uniform, relaxing on a couch with his family. The seven-time Super Bowl champion wrote over the picture, "The Brady's love you," and added prayer emojis.
'Purely accidental'
The child's death "is not believed to be suspicious in nature at this time," according to a police report that The Associated Press was able to access. The site did note that Arrayah's death is still under investigation. According to the police report, the death is now being considered "a purely accidental and tragic incident."
'Honor Arrayah's memory by wearing bright colors'
Jordanna revealed to her followers that she and Shaquil will hold a "private funeral service" on May 5 by posting a link to Arrayah's obituary on Wednesday. The pair requested that everyone present to "honor Arrayah's memory by wearing bright colors" to the service rather than making a donation.