FORT WORTH, TX – A fatal incident unfolded in Fort Worth, Texas, on Tuesday evening when a 6-year-old boy, Andrew Skinner, drowned in a backyard pool. The event occurred at the babysitter’s home on Westgate Drive in northwest Fort Worth.
According to the police, the boy was removed from the water and immediately rushed to the hospital. However, he didn’t survive. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed the identity of the victim.
Carla Skinner, Andrew’s mother, said her two young children had been with the babysitter, who she connected with on social media, for about a week. Despite her profound grief, Skinner stated she forgives the couple responsible for her son’s care and is praying for the babysitter.
Characterizing the situation as a “tragic accident,” Skinner admitted that enhanced care and vigilance could have prevented the accident, particularly given her son’s quick nature. Skinner, whose son was autistic and fascinated with water, also cautioned other parents who send their children with special needs into others’ care to make sure that proper safety measures are in place.
Andrew was known for opening doors swiftly and had a reported fascination with water. The man who assisted in babysitting had informed Skinner that Andrew had been playing with the doggy door the previous week.
While Skinner expressed regret over the unfortunate accident, she does not regret choosing the babysitter. Although charges have yet to be filed in connection to the incident, Skinner’s focus is now on urging parents to ensure their child’s caregiver is equipped to handle all precautions necessary for children with special needs.