A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken a small Illinois community after a 3-year-old boy died in a drowning accident on Saturday, May 24. Kaseyn Clifton was at home in Oreana with his siblings and an aunt while his mother stepped out for a quick errand that lasted about 15 minutes, according to the Macon County Sheriff’s Office.
During that brief window, Kaseyn managed to slide open a back door, wandered into the yard, and fell into the family’s pool. When his mom, Jessica Lee Mares, returned home, the family discovered Kaseyn in the pool and immediately called 911. First responders rushed him to Decatur Memorial Hospital, but sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office shared with PEOPLE.
Jessica later shared her grief in a gut-wrenching Facebook post, writing, “Our hearts are broken, and there are no words for the pain we are feeling. Life is so unfair!!! This world will never be the same without you!” Authorities have since wrapped up their investigation and found no signs of criminal activity, local station WAND reported.
Kaseyn’s obituary describes him as a joyful and lively little boy who filled each day with laughter and light. “Though his time with us was far too short, Kaseyn filled each day with so much joy. Full of life and energy, he had a smile that could light up any room and a giggle that will echo in our hearts forever,” the tribute read.
He loved the simple things—playing with blocks, solving puzzles, watching Cocomelon, blowing bubbles, heading to the park, practicing his ABCs and numbers, and snuggling with his parents.
Drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 in the United States, according to the CDC. This heartbreaking incident is a devastating reminder of just how quickly accidents can happen, even in a place that feels as safe as home. The loss of Kaseyn has left his family and community mourning a young life taken far too soon.