Imagine enjoying a serene family vacation on the sun-kissed shores of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, only to have it turn into an unimaginable tragedy. This is the heartbreaking reality for Therese and Jason Mattingly, whose children, Sloan, 7, and Maddox, 9, were tragically buried alive while playing in a sand hole.
This devastating event has left the family and their loved ones in shock, grappling with the loss of Sloan, who was known for her pure and kind spirit. The children were trapped when the sand hole they were playing in suddenly collapsed. Despite the swift efforts of emergency responders, Sloan could not be saved. Her brother, Maddox, remains in critical condition, and we can only hope for his recovery.
This tragic incident underscores the importance of beach safety and highlights the hidden dangers of large sand holes. While it was a rare accident, it serves as a powerful reminder that we must all be vigilant to protect our loved ones at the beach.
As the community mourns the loss of this sweet young girl, friends, family, and even strangers have rallied to support the Mattingly family with messages of love and financial assistance. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover funeral expenses and support the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Local residents and visitors in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea are stunned by the incident, struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could occur in a place usually associated with relaxation and joy. The beach currently does not have lifeguards on duty, prompting calls for increased beach patrols and greater awareness of the dangers posed by sand holes.
The American Lifeguard Association has issued a warning about the risks of sand holes, urging communities to take measures to promote beach safety. By fostering a culture of awareness and precaution, we can help prevent future tragedies and ensure that our beaches remain safe and happy places for everyone.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the Mattingly family as they navigate this profound loss. Sharing their story and extending our support is crucial during this heartbreaking time.
