3-Year-Old Went into Cardiac Arrest After Crash, Family Says. First Responders Brought Him Back, but He Died Days Later

A family in California is grieving the tragic loss of three-year-old Kendrixx Leavell, who passed away on Wednesday, May 20, following a serious car accident earlier in the week. According to a message shared by Kendrixx’s family, he died surrounded by loved ones.

The tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of May 17 when Kendrixx was a passenger in a Kia Optima, which was driving southbound on Highway 41. Reports indicate that the Kia collided with a Toyota Camry that was unexpectedly stopped in the middle lane without its lights on. The collision caused both vehicles to lose control, ultimately coming to rest on either side of the highway, creating a chaotic scene for first responders.

Kendrixx sustained severe injuries despite being buckled in with a seatbelt at the time of the accident, although he was not secured in a child car seat. The driver of the Toyota, identified as 31-year-old Carlos Sandoval Jr. from Selma, was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. The circumstances surrounding why the Toyota was stopped in the middle of the road remain unclear, with investigators suspecting that Sandoval may have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Authorities are currently awaiting toxicology reports and further analysis from the coroner.

After the accident, Kendrixx went into cardiac arrest, but thanks to the efforts of first responders and medical staff, he was revived. However, his family later revealed that he was left paralysed from severe spinal injuries sustained during the crash, leading to an extremely challenging and heart-wrenching recovery process that culminated in his untimely death.

The Leavell family took to a GoFundMe page to share their anguish and the arduous journey they faced since the accident. “No family is ever prepared for something this traumatic,” loved ones expressed, detailing the unimaginable loss they were enduring.

On the afternoon of May 20, heartbreak struck as the family announced that Kendrixx had succumbed to his injuries. The heartbreaking update conveyed the sorrow of losing their beloved child, highlighting the loving support he received surrounded by family in his final moments. “Despite fighting so hard through devastating cervical spine injuries and complications from the crash, he sadly gained his wings,” the family stated in their message.

The impact of this tragic loss has extended beyond the immediate family, as community members and friends have rallied together in support. In their message, the family expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donations, prayers, and kind words offered during this excruciatingly painful time, noting that the support had provided some comfort amidst their grief.

As investigations into the crash continue, the tragic loss of Kendrixx Leavell serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching consequences of road traffic incidents. The community is coming together to honour Kendrixx’s memory while also advocating for increased road safety and awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.

In the wake of this devastating event, the Leavell family hopes that others will keep them in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult and painful chapter in their lives. The love and support they have received showcases the strength of community as they cope with this incomprehensible loss.

As further updates regarding the investigation and the circumstances surrounding the accident emerge, the focus remains on remembering the joyful spirit of Kendrixx and supporting his family during this overwhelmingly tragic time.