Community hopeful for a remarkably improbable outcome following the incident of a young girl being caught in a storm drain
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A tragic incident occurred in Sarasota, Florida, on Sunday, when a 5-year-old girl was pulled into a storm drain. The incident took place near a culvert on Bahia Vista Street, and was caused by a broken water main near Honore Avenue and Sarasota Christian School.
According to a neighbour, the events unfolded quickly. The neighbour heard people talking and shouting, and learned that a neighbour's little girl was playing in the water and got swept away.
First responders found the girl in the drainage system about 100 yards west of Bahia Vista Street. She suffered critical injuries in the ordeal and was immediately rescued and taken to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for treatment.
The Sarasota County Fire Department described the incident as a "low-frequency, high-risk event." The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has assigned a detective with the criminal investigation section to the case, and the investigation is ongoing. However, there are no search results available that specify which authority is involved in the investigation of the accident.
The neighbour also mentioned that her daughter is friends with the girl and would have been playing in the water with them, had it not been for a planned visit to see her grandmother. The neighbour expressed sympathy for the family, stating that they can't fathom what they are going through.
Community members are supporting the family, and the neighbour stated that they are praying for a miracle for the family. Donations are currently being accepted through a GoFundMe created by the girl's family.
The water flow increase caused by the broken water main pulled the girl into the drain due to the strong current. The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office and the Sarasota County Fire Department are urging residents to stay safe and avoid playing in or near storm drains during heavy rain events.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and the dangers that can arise in even the most ordinary circumstances. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.
