This is the heart-wrenching story of Sloan Mattingly, a seven-year-old girl who tragically lost her life after being buried alive on a Florida beach while playing with her brother, Maddox.
The incident occurred at a Lauderdale-by-the-Sea beach, where the family was enjoying a vacation.
Parents’ Grief and Apology:
Sloan’s parents, Therese and Jason Mattingly, express their profound grief and shock over the sudden and tragic loss of their daughter.
They apologize to witnesses who had to endure the traumatic scene and extend their gratitude to those who attempted to rescue Sloan from the collapsed sand hole.
Warning to Other Families:
In the wake of the devastating event, Sloan’s parents advocate for increased awareness of the dangers associated with digging holes at the beach.
They hope that their daughter’s death serves as a cautionary tale for other families, urging them to prioritize safety and vigilance during beach outings.
Regret and Frustration:
Therese and Jason express regret and frustration over not recognizing the potential danger of sand holes, particularly given their reputation for being overprotective parents.
They emphasize the need for increased safety measures, such as lifeguards or signage, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Efforts to Save Sloan:
It describes the frantic efforts of beachgoers to rescue Sloan from the collapsed sand hole, captured in harrowing cell phone footage.
Despite their valiant attempts, Sloan did not survive, underscoring the urgency of addressing the risks associated with sand holes.
Expert Insights and Statistics:
Experts warn about the dangers of deep sand holes, citing studies and previous incidents where children have been fatally injured.
Dr. Stephen Leatherman highlights the rapid collapse of sand holes and the risk of suffocation once a person is submerged beneath the surface.
Community Support and Mourning:
The Mattingly family receives an outpouring of support from their community, with a GoFundMe page set up to assist them during this difficult time.
Sloan’s uncle and family members share memories of her vibrant personality and the devastating impact of her loss on their lives.
Emergency Response and Tragic Outcome:
It details the sequence of events following the collapse of the sand hole, including the arrival of emergency responders and the ultimately tragic outcome of Sloan’s rescue efforts.
The 911 audio recordings capture the chaos and desperation of the situation as bystanders frantically attempted to save the young girl.
Conclusion:
Sloan Mattingly’s untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can lurk in seemingly innocuous settings like a beach.
The tragedy prompts reflection on the importance of vigilance, safety precautions, and community support in preventing similar incidents and supporting those affected by such devastating losses.