On May 12, 2025, Chandler, Arizona, police responded to a drowning call at a home near East Chandler Heights, where 3-year-old Trigg Kiser was found unconscious in a backyard pool. Despite heroic efforts by first responders and medical teams, Trigg passed away on May 18, just days after the incident.
According to Chandler police spokesperson Sonu Wasu, an investigation is underway to understand the circumstances surrounding this devastating accident. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the child’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time,” Wasu said.
Emilie Kiser, a TikTok influencer known for sharing her life as a mother to Trigg and her younger son, Theodore, has not publicly commented on the tragedy at the time of this writing. However, posts on X reflect an outpouring of grief and support from her followers and the wider community. This loss resonates deeply, as many parents can relate to the joy and vulnerability of raising young children.
A Family Forever Changed
Emilie and her husband, Brady, welcomed Trigg in July 2021, followed by Theodore in March 2025. Emilie’s Instagram posts often captured the love she had for her boys, with one caption reading, “The love I have for my boys is infinite.” The Kisers’ story is one of a tight-knit family navigating the highs and lows of parenthood. Now, they face an unimaginable grief that no parent should endure.
Losing a child is a pain that lingers, and experts emphasize the importance of community support during such times. Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a grief counselor, notes, “Grieving parents need compassionate listeners who acknowledge their pain without trying to ‘fix’ it.” As Emilie and Brady navigate this loss, their community—both online and offline—can play a vital role in offering love and understanding.
Drowning: A Silent and Preventable Danger
Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death among children ages 1–4, according to the CDC. In 2023, over 2,500 children under 14 died from drowning in the U.S., with residential pools accounting for a significant portion of these incidents. The speed and silence of drowning make it particularly dangerous—children can lose consciousness in under two minutes underwater.
Trigg’s accident highlights the need for heightened pool safety measures. Experts recommend multiple layers of protection, including:
- Fencing: Install a four-sided fence at least 4 feet high with self-latching gates.
- Supervision: Designate a “water watcher” to actively monitor children near water, avoiding distractions like phones.
- Alarms: Use pool alarms or door alarms to alert adults if a child enters the pool area.
- Swim Lessons: Enroll children in swim classes as early as age 1 to build water competency.
Dr. Sarah Denny, a pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, stresses, “No single measure is foolproof. Combining barriers, supervision, and education is critical to preventing drowning.” These steps could save countless lives each year.
Honoring Trigg’s Memory Through Action
While nothing can undo the pain of Trigg’s loss, families and communities can honor his memory by advocating for water safety. Organizations like the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) offer resources for parents, including free safety checklists and educational webinars. Hosting a community pool safety workshop or donating to drowning prevention charities in Trigg’s name are meaningful ways to make a difference.
On a personal level, parents can take immediate steps to protect their children. For example, Jessica, a mother from Texas, shared how a near-drowning incident with her toddler prompted her to install a pool fence and enroll her kids in swim lessons. “It was a wake-up call,” she said. “I realized how fast accidents can happen.” Stories like Jessica’s remind us that proactive measures can prevent tragedies.
Supporting Emilie and Her Family
As Emilie and Brady grieve, their community can provide comfort in small but impactful ways. Sending condolence messages, respecting their privacy, or contributing to a memorial fund (if established) shows solidarity. Grief experts suggest avoiding clichés like “They’re in a better place” and instead offering specific support, such as, “I’m here to listen whenever you need me.”
Online communities, like those on X, have already begun sharing messages of love. One user wrote, “My heart breaks for Emilie Kiser and her family. No words can ease this pain, but we’re holding you in our thoughts.” These gestures, though simple, remind grieving families they’re not alone.
A Call to Raise Awareness
Trigg’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of water safety. By sharing his story, we can raise awareness and prevent future tragedies. Parents, caregivers, and communities must work together to ensure pools are safe spaces for children. Whether it’s installing a fence, signing up for swim lessons, or advocating for stricter safety regulations, every action counts.
If you’re a parent, take a moment to review your home’s safety measures. If you’re part of a community, consider organizing a drowning prevention event. Together, we can honor Trigg’s memory by protecting other children from similar fates.
Final Thoughts
The loss of Trigg Kiser is a tragedy that has touched hearts worldwide. As we mourn with Emilie, Brady, and Theodore, let’s channel our grief into meaningful action. By prioritizing pool safety and supporting grieving families, we can create a legacy of love and prevention in Trigg’s name. Our thoughts remain with the Kiser family as they navigate this unbearable loss.
