A heartbreaking incident unfolded in southwest Miami-Dade on Sunday when a 3-year-old girl was found unresponsive in a backyard swimming pool. According to authorities, the toddler, identified by family as Layla Johnson, was discovered face down in the water by her family just after 11 a.m. Despite immediate CPR efforts and a rushed transport to a local hospital, the young girl was pronounced dead.
The family, overcome with grief, said the child had only been out of sight for a brief moment. They are now mourning the loss of a beloved daughter, niece, and granddaughter—while also calling on the community to raise awareness about pool safety for young children.
Layla had reportedly been playing in the home when she somehow gained access to the backyard pool area. It remains unclear whether a safety gate or door alarm was present, but the family says she may have exited through a sliding glass door.
Miami-Dade Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning. At this time, no criminal charges have been filed.
Florida leads the nation in child drowning deaths, with many of these tragedies occurring in residential pools. Experts stress the importance of layers of protection—such as child-proof locks, pool fences, door alarms, and vigilant adult supervision—to prevent accidents like this one.
Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq. of The Haggard Law Firm, who has extensive experience representing families in drowning cases, explains, “Drowning is silent, fast, and tragically preventable. One moment of distraction can change a family forever. Property owners, including parents, must ensure every measure is taken to secure a pool area when young children are present.”
While this case remains under investigation, it highlights the urgent need for pool safety reform and public education. In some instances, families may be eligible to pursue a civil claim if it’s determined that negligence—such as a defective pool gate, lack of proper barriers, or failure to meet local safety codes—played a role.
Michael Haggard, Esq. offers free consultations for families navigating the aftermath of a drowning incident. His team is dedicated to helping families determine their legal rights and explore all possible avenues for accountability and justice.
If your family has been affected by a drowning tragedy in Florida, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact Michael Haggard, Esq. at aquaticattorney.com for a free and confidential consultation. You may have grounds to seek justice and prevent future tragedies from claiming more young lives.
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