Boy, 8, ‘drowns’ at World Cup watch party as tributes paid to ‘kind spirit’

Taylor Thach, aged 8, tragically died at a friend’s house in El Segundo, California during a World Cup watch party in what police believe was an accidental drowning

An eight-year-old boy tragically lost his life during a World Cup viewing party in what police suspect was an “accidental drowning”. Taylor Thach was celebrating at a friend’s home when tragedy struck.

Officers were called to the home where Taylor was found around 7:30pm on 12 Jun, as reported by NeedToKnow. First responders tried desperately to save Taylor before rushing him to a medical centre.

The heartbreaking incident unfolded at a friend’s residence in El Segundo, California. He was swiftly taken to the Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre, where, sadly, Taylor passed away. Eric Atkinson, the Investigations Lieutenant from El Segundo Police Department, reportedly stated that ‘every sign points to accidental drowning’.

However, he also confirmed that no autopsy had been carried out at this stage. Police are still collecting statements from those who attended the World Cup viewing party.

Members of the community have now set up a GoFundMe page to support Taylor’s grieving family. The $5,000 target has been well and truly surpassed with over $83,000 already raised in just four days.

The funds will go directly to his mum Sokunthea, dad Somnang and brother Jordan Thach.

Taylor is remembered for his ‘kind heart and friendly spirit’.

A neighbour who set up the fundraiser said: “It is with unimaginable sadness and heartbreak that we share the loss of Taylor Thach, a beloved Center Street School student, who tragically passed away following an accidental drowning.

“Taylor had been a Cougar since kindergarten and was a beloved member of the school community. He was known for his kind heart and friendly spirit.

“Affectionate and polite, he often went out of his way to ask others how they were doing or to wish them a good day. He brought joy to those around him.

“As a community, we are struggling to make sense of such a devastating loss.

“The El Segundo Families have always shown up for one another in times of need, and we know so many people are asking how they can help.

“This GoFundMe is one small way we can come together to support the Thach family during the most difficult time of their lives.

“All funds raised will go directly to the family to help ease immediate expenses and allow them the space and time they need to focus on healing and honoring Taylor’s memory.

“Please keep the Thach family, Taylor’s classmates, teachers, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. If you are able, any contribution – no matter the amount – is deeply appreciated.

“If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Taylor’s memory alive means just as much.

“Taylor was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.”