(Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaquil Barrett’s 2-year-old daughter died Sunday morning after drowning in a pool. A statement from Tampa Police Department states Barrett’s daughter Arrayah, fell into the pool sometime before 9:30 a.m. Sunday, per PEOPLE.
Arrayah was rushed to an area hospital but didn’t survive the incident. Authorities do not believe the girl’s death to be suspicious at this time. Instead, they’ve labeled the case a “purely accidental and tragic incident.”
The Tampa Bay Times reports that the little girl was the youngest of four children the 30-year-old NFL star shares with his wife and high school sweetheart, Jordanna.
The Buccaneers released an official statement on Twitter after news of Arrayah’s death went public, calling it 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 read. “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.”
Recently-retired Tampa Bay QB Tom Brady, who played several seasons with Barrett, similarly offered his condolences.
The seven-time Super Bowl Champ posted a photo on his Instagram Story of Barrett, with a beaming smile, wearing his No. 58 jersey while posing on a couch with his family, who all are sporting Bucs attire as well.
“The Brady’s love you,” Brady wrote over the image, including prayer emojis.
Arraya had recently celebrated her second birthday on April 19, with Barrett posting an adorable tribute to the toddler at the time.
“Happy 2nd bday to my cutie girl. So sweet and cute. You made our family complete. I love you baby girl😘😘,” he wrote alongside a photo of smiling Arrayah wearing a pink tutu.
Meanwhile, an investigation into Aarayah’s death remains ongoing.
According to CNN, Barrett, who has played in the National Football League for nine seasons, entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of Colorado State.
He played his first five seasons with the Denver Broncos, while this upcoming 2023-2024 season will be his fifth as a Buccaneer.
In January, former NFL running back Peyton Hills found himself in critical condition after saving his children from drowning, as reported by The Shade Room.
The 36-year-old, who played seven seasons in the NFL from 2008 to 2014, played for the Broncos, Browns, Chiefs and Giants after being drafted out of Arkansas by Denver.
