UPDATED: A toddler is dead after drowning in a flooded pit at Popua on Sunday, police said.
The Police responded to a report received on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at approximately 1.45pm.
“The preliminary investigations indicated that the incident involved a little boy, aged 1 year and 8 months old, who was playing with his siblings near an unfinished ground hole filled with rainwater”, a police statement said.
“When his older brother noticed he was nowhere to be seen, they began searching for him.
“It was explained that about half an hour later, he found his brother’s body floating in the water hole just behind their home.
“Efforts were made to pull him out and call for help, but it was too late.
It said emergency services and an ambulance arrived at the scene around 2.15PM.
“The medical personnel confirmed the little boy’s death and was transported to Vaiola Hospital.
The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic suspected drowning incident.
“Tonga Police would like to remind and advise the community to be safe in their surroundings. It is important for parents and guardians to stay alert and ensure the safety of your children during bad weather. It is also advised to say away from flooded streets and encourage your children to stay indoor during a heavy rain”.
