8-Year-Old Boy Dies After Drowning During World Cup Watch Party

An 8-year-old boy has tragically died following an incident at a World Cup watch party in El Segundo, California.

The incident reportedly occurred at around 7:30 p.m. on June 12 when the child, identified as Taylor Thach, became unresponsive while attending a gathering at a friend’s home.

According to reports, emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported Taylor to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. However, he was later pronounced dead.

Speaking about the incident, Eric Atkinson, an Investigations Lieutenant with the El Segundo Police Department, said that all indications currently point to an accidental drowning.

He also noted that an autopsy had not yet been conducted on the 8-year-old.

Authorities are continuing their investigation and are gathering statements from individuals who attended the World Cup watch party.

Meanwhile, members of the community have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Taylor’s family during the difficult period.

The fundraiser, which initially set a goal of $5,000, has received overwhelming support, raising more than $83,000 within four days.

According to the campaign, the funds will go directly to Taylor’s mother, Sokunthea Thach, father, Somnang Thach, and brother, Jordan Thach.

Taylor is being remembered by family members, friends, and members of his school community for his kindness and positive spirit.

A neighbor who created the fundraiser wrote:

“It is with unimaginable sadness and heartbreak that we share the loss of Taylor Thach, a beloved Center Street School student, who tragically passed away following an accidental drowning.

“Taylor had been a Cougar since kindergarten and was a beloved member of the school community. He was known for his kind heart and friendly spirit.

“Affectionate and polite, he often went out of his way to ask others how they were doing or to wish them a good day. He brought joy to those around him.

“As a community, we are struggling to make sense of such a devastating loss.

“The El Segundo Families have always shown up for one another in times of need, and we know so many people are asking how they can help.

“This GoFundMe is one small way we can come together to support the Thach family during the most difficult time of their lives.

“All funds raised will go directly to the family to help ease immediate expenses and allow them the space and time they need to focus on healing and honoring Taylor’s memory.

“Please keep the Thach family, Taylor’s classmates, teachers, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.

“If you are able, any contribution – no matter the amount – is deeply appreciated.

“If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Taylor’s memory alive means just as much.

“Taylor was deeply loved, and he will never be forgotten.”