DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The family of two young brothers found dead in a Daytona Beach retention pond is raising money to help their mother pay for their funerals.
Elijah Khalil Hawkins, 5, and Kashh Kendrell Williams, 3, were reported missing Saturday after leaving their home near North Clyde Morris Boulevard. Authorities later found both children dead in a nearby pond.
Channel 9 previously reported that police believe the drownings were accidental and found no indication of foul play.
The boys’ uncle, Tre’Yon Mann, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support their mother, Tiki’Ja Mann, and help cover funeral expenses.
According to the fundraiser, the children bypassed a child-safety lock and left the home to take the family dog outside while their mother was asleep.
Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young previously said surveillance video showed the boys playing near the pond before they went into the water. Their mother came outside to search for them minutes later.
Mann described his nephews as smart, charismatic and loving children who brought smiles and laughter to the people around them.
“Elijah and Kashh were such bright and beautiful souls,” their mother said in a statement shared through the fundraiser. “My babies will be truly missed.”
By Wednesday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $2,100 toward its $9,000 goal.
The family said the campaign organized by Tre’Yon Mann is the official fundraiser and warned that other campaigns claiming to collect money for the children may not be legitimate.
The case has been forwarded to the State Attorney’s Office, which will determine whether any charges are warranted.
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