A TODDLER has died after a bouncy castle was lifted off the ground by a strong gust of wind in a “tragic accident”.
Several children are understood to have been playing in the inflatable structure when a gust of wind sent it airborne.
The parents of the two-year-old boy, reportedly named Bodhi Naaf, are “grappling with unimaginable grief” following the tragedy near Casa Grande, Arizona in the United States.
A statement from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office read: “Several children were playing in a bounce house when a strong gust of wind sent it airborne into the neighbouring lot.
“A two-year-old child was transported to the hospital where he passed away.”
Local reports said a second child was taken to hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
A GoFundMe campaign launched for Bodhi’s parents Karl and Cristy, who are expecting their second child in late May, said the pair were “grappling with unimaginable grief”.
Friend of the family Ashley Al-Khouri said: “On April 27th, while playing in a bounce house, Bodhi was lifted airborne by a sudden gust of wind, resulting in fatal injuries.
“This devastating loss has left Karl and Cristy grappling with unimaginable grief.
“Adding to their challenges, Cristy is due to give birth to their second child on May 31, 2024. Amidst their sorrow, they face the daunting task of preparing for the arrival of their newborn.”
The campaign has raised more than $150,000 (£120,000), with donations intended to “help Karl and Cristy focus on grieving their beloved Bodhi while also preparing for the new chapter in their lives”.
Bodhi’s father Karl works at the Phoenix Fire Department, according to the GoFundMe page.
The department said in a statement: “We are all devastated by this tremendous loss of life. The fire service prides itself on being one big family.
“Our membership and our department are doing everything we can to support Karl and Cristy during this difficult time.”
