A Florida family is grieving the loss of their 3-year-old daughter after she became trapped inside a toy kitchen play set while under a babysitter’s care, according to Boynton Beach police.
The child, remembered by loved ones as Briella, passed away on July 27 — four days after officers found her unresponsive with her head lodged inside the play set.
Police said they were called to a home in the Meadows of Boynton Beach community just after 11 a.m. on July 23, following a report of a child who was not breathing. Officers arrived and immediately began emergency life-saving efforts before Boynton Beach Fire Rescue rushed the toddler to a nearby hospital. She remained in critical condition for days before ultimately succumbing to her injuries.
According to investigators, Briella and her sibling had been left in the care of the babysitter’s spouse after the babysitter stepped out of the home. While the children played on the lower level of the house, the spouse stayed upstairs, checking in periodically and bringing them snacks.
During one such check, the spouse discovered Briella with her head stuck inside the toy kitchen unit. She was quickly freed, and the spouse began performing emergency first aid until paramedics arrived on scene.
Police said the toddler’s sibling later told investigators that some toys had fallen inside the play kitchen, and Briella appeared to have been reaching in to retrieve them when she became trapped.
No criminal charges have been filed at this time, and authorities say the investigation remains active.
A fundraiser organized by the family’s loved ones described Briella as having a warm and joyful spirit, saying she brought light into the lives of everyone around her. Funds raised are expected to go toward funeral and memorial costs as the family copes with the tragedy.
Officials have not yet released the toddler’s official cause and manner of death.