The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the NFL community are mourning the death of Arrayah Barrett, the 2-year-old daughter of linebacker Shaquil Barrett, who drowned in a pool at the family’s home on Sunday morning. According to the Tampa Bay Police Department, officers responded to a call that a child had fallen into a pool at Barrett’s residence in South Tampa around 9:30 a.m. ET. Arrayah was taken to a hospital and later pronounced dead. The police said the investigation is ongoing, but it appears to be a “purely accidental and tragic incident” .
Arrayah was the youngest of four children of Shaquil and his wife Jordanna Barrett. Shaquil, who joined the Buccaneers in 2019 and made two Pro Bowls with the team, posted a series of photos of his daughter on Instagram earlier this month to celebrate her second birthday. “Happy 2nd bday to my cutie girl. So sweet and cute. You made our family complete. I love you baby girl,” he wrote .
The Buccaneers released a statement on Sunday, expressing their support and sympathy for the Barrett family. “Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time,” the team said . “While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”
Shaquil, who is recovering from a torn Achilles that sidelined him for the second half of last season, is entering his fifth year with Tampa Bay after spending the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos. He led the NFL with 19½ sacks in 2019 and helped the Bucs win the Super Bowl in 2020 .
We extend our deepest condolences to Shaquil, Jordanna and their family for their loss. Arrayah will always be remembered as a beautiful and precious child who brought joy to everyone who knew her.
