The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Shaquil Barrett has suffered a tragic accident. His two-year-old daughter Arrayah drowned in the swimming pool at the family home on Sunday, authorities said.
According to the Tampa Police Department, police were notified around 9:30 a.m. local time Sunday that a child had fallen into a pool. Officers were then dispatched to Barrett’s home in the Beach Park neighborhood of south Tampa. The child was taken to the hospital and later pronounced dead. An investigation has been launched, police said.
“It is not believed at this time that this is a suspected case, but a purely coincidental and tragic incident,” the Tampa Police Department statement said. Arrayah was the youngest child in the family. Barrett, 30, and his wife Jordanna have three other children.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family at this incredibly difficult time,” the Buccaneers said in a statement. “While words cannot offer real comfort at such a time, we offer them our support and love as they begin to process this profound loss.”
Barrett is entering his fifth season with the Buccaneers and has twice been called to the Pro Bowl, including in 2019 when he led the National Football League (NFL) with 19.5 sacks. Defensive player Barrett won the Super Bowl with the Buccaneers two years ago alongside quarterback icon Tom Brady. His 2022 season ended prematurely after a torn Achilles tendon.
Brady, who has since retired, condoled to his former teammate via Instagram shortly after the tragic accident became known: “The Bradys love you,” he wrote with a heart for a photo of the Barrett family.
