A toddler tragically died in a lake after his 18-year-old cousin who was autistic left him unattended for a moment and refused to jump in to save him as he was scared of water.
According to reports, 2-year-old Greyson Birch from Southampton was found in the water at Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve after he had gone out with his cousin Lewis Birch, who was 18 when the incident occurred.
He was rushed to Southampton General Hospital where he passed away only days later.
Coroner Rosamund Rhodes-Kemp concluded that Greyson died by accident in a ‘tragedy.’
“On the 30th of May 2021, Lewis Birch, aged 18, with autism and depression, had sole care of Greyson Birch for the first time,” the coroner stated.
“Greyson wanted to go in his car, they went for something to eat and eventually to Swanwick Lake, arriving about 19:30.
“They went on to a wooden pontoon near the water where Greyson threw sticks. Lewis went to relieve himself and returned to find Greyson in the water.”
The coroner said that Lewis did not try to jump in the water because he was scared and couldn’t swim, so he called his aunt and emergency services rushed to the scene.
“Advanced life support was given and Greyson was taken to Southampton General Hospital in a critically unwell condition,” the coroner continued.
“Despite all treatment he sadly died in Southampton General Hospital on the 3rd of June 2021.
“He suffered a lack of oxygen to the brain such as to be incompatible with life. The conclusion today is accident and that is what will be on the record of inquest.”
She also said that we will never know what exactly happened as there were no witnesses or CCTV at the spot.
In a heartwarming tribute, Greyson’s family said: “His memory will remain always and live through the smiles and joy of each individual who had the pleasure of meeting him.
“His bubbly personality that filled all our hearts with joy and happiness will linger in this world.
“Greyson was our light and life that will still shine to us all through our thoughts and memories. Greyson would love to dance, sing, play, just everything!”
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