Shaquil Barrett’s two-year-old daughter, Arrayah, drowned in the family’s swimming pool in Tampa, Florida on Sunday. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers confirmed the heartbreaking news later in the day.
“Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family,” the team said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna, and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time. While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”
Shaq Barrett On The Buccaneers
The Tampa Police Department says officers arrived at the residence just before 9:30 AM, after receiving a call that a child had fallen into a pool. They transported Arrayah to a local hospital where they pronounced her dead. “It is not believed to be suspicious in nature at this time, but a purely accidental and tragic incident,” the Tampa PD said in a statement.
Arrayah and the rest of the Barrett family just celebrated her second birthday on April 19. The star linebacker had posted a tribute to her on Instagram writing, “Happy 2nd bday to my cutie girl. So sweet and cute. You made our family complete. I love you baby girl.” Arrayah was the youngest of four children in the family. Shaq and his wife Jordanna’s other kids are ages 11, 9, and 8.
Shaq is now entering his fifth season with the Buccaneers where he’s been named to the Pro Bowl twice. He also led the NFL with 19.5 sacks in 2019. He is coming off of a 2022 season in which he suffered a torn Achilles. Shaq recently signed a four-year, $72 million contract with $34 million guaranteed to remain with the team for the foreseeable future. Check out the Bucs’ statement on Arrayah’s passing on Twitter below.
The Bucs Confirm Arrayah’s Passing
[Via]