Boy, 2, dies after bouncy castle is swept into the air in strong winds
A toddler has been killed in a tragic accident after a bouncy castle he was playing on was swept into the air by a sudden gust of wind.
The parents of the two-year-old boy, believed to be named Bodhi Naaf, are said to be grappling with ‘unimaginable grief’ following the tragedy, which took place near Casa Grande, Arizona in the United States.
Several more children were also playing on the inflatable when it blew away, one of whom was taken to hospital with injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening.
A statement from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office read: ‘Several children were playing in a bounce house when a strong gust of wind sent it airborne into the neighbouring lot.
‘A two-year-old child was transported to the hospital where he passed away.’
A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to support Bodhi’s parents Karl and Christy, who are currently expecting their second child in late May.
The campaign, which has raised more than $150,000 (£120,000) so far, says the donations are intended to ‘help Karl and Cristy focus on grieving their beloved Bodhi while also preparing for the new chapter in their lives’.
Family friend Ashley Al-Khouri said: ‘On April 27th, while playing in a bounce house, Bodhi was lifted airborne by a sudden gust of wind, resulting in fatal injuries.
‘This devastating loss has left Karl and Cristy grappling with unimaginable grief.
‘Adding to their challenges, Cristy is due to give birth to their second child on May 31, 2024. Amidst their sorrow, they face the daunting task of preparing for the arrival of their newborn.’
Bodhi’s father Karl works as a firefighter at the Phoenix Fire Department, who said in a statement: ‘We are all devastated by this tremendous loss of life. The fire service prides itself on being one big family.
‘Our membership and our department are doing everything we can to support Karl and Cristy during this difficult time.’
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