Drowning Of Union County Toddler Sparks Fundraiser

UNION COUNTY, NJ — After a two-year-old boy tragically drowned in a backyard swimming pool in Linden on Sunday, a GoFundMe was created for the boy's family.

"The unexpected death of a child is an unimaginable loss that no one could be prepared for," Marcia Pimentel, a close friend of the family and creator of the GoFundMe, wrote. "No words can begin to describe the torture and anguish these parents are going through. A life cut so short, much sooner than any of us expected."

In just one day, more than $18,000 has been raised for the Ruiz family.

When family members found two-year-old Christian Carter Ruiz in the backyard pool on Sunday afternoon, they immediately pulled him out and began CPR.

The boy was then rushed to Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth, where he was pronounced dead a short while later, police said.

Read more: 2-Year-Old Boy Drowns In Union Co. Backyard Pool: Police

Pimental created the GoFundMe to raise funds for Ruiz's memorial that will honor him and allow the family to give him their last goodbyes.

"Christian was a sweet little boy, funny, fearless, and could brighten even your darkest days," Pimental wrote. "He was a joy to all those lucky enough to be in his presence and his brother’s best friend."

The money raised will help the family cover the cost of the funeral. For those who cannot afford to donate, Pimental encourages people to share the GoFundMe with others.

You can visit the GoFundMe page here to donate.

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