Tragic Loss: North Carolina Toddler Dies After Falling into Pool on July 4th
(Image: Handout)
A North Carolina family is mourning the loss of their two-year-old son, Wyatt Gordon, who tragically died after falling into a swimming pool during the Independence Day weekend. Wyatt, son of Anne Marie and Zach Gordon, suffered a severe brain injury after the accidental fall on July 4. Despite being rescued and rushed to the hospital, Wyatt’s condition remained critical. His family confirmed that he underwent his second EEG at 8 p.m. on July 6, but the results were not promising. A third EEG was scheduled for 8 a.m. the following day.
In their desperate plea for a “miracle,” the family turned to the community for support. Michael Pendleton, Wyatt’s uncle, set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the medical expenses. “His accident has affected a lot of lives and families. Right now, Wyatt is on a ventilator. His prognosis is poor and we are relying on a miracle at this point,” Michael wrote.
In an update, Michael shared the heartbreaking news: “The first EEG did not have good results. We are hoping to see some brain activity in the next two. Prayers are needed more than ever right now.” Tragically, Wyatt succumbed to his injuries on July 7. “On July 7th Wyatt Gordon unfortunately passed away from his injuries. Please keep his parents, Anne Marie and Zach, in your thoughts. This is a parent’s absolute worst nightmare,” Michael wrote.
Wyatt’s parents, who also have a one-year-old daughter and are expecting their third child, are devastated. Zach, a firefighter in Waco, North Carolina, has received overwhelming support from his community and colleagues. The Waco Fire Department is hosting a BBQ in Wyatt’s honor, with assistance from the Charlotte Fire Department and the Fallston Community Volunteer Department.
The First Methodist Church of Lawndale, attended by the Gordons, shared the tragic news during their Sunday service. “We have just received the news [that] little Wyatt Gordon has passed away,” the pastor announced. “We are going to God in prayer. You see the unfortunate circumstance in the fragility of our church. Lord, God, we are not sure of what to say or do. We ask you to comfort us in this time.”
Donations and kind words have poured in from across the state. Michael expressed his sorrow to WCNC, discussing the impact of Wyatt’s loss. “Wyatt was a bright-eyed, very smart, and outgoing two-year-old,” Michael shared. “He loved life and everybody. With his passing, he left a big hole in the community.” The GoFundMe campaign has already raised more than $20,000 of its $25,000 target within three days. The community continues to rally around the Gordon family, providing emotional and financial support during this incredibly difficult time.
