During a family vacation in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, tragedy struck when siblings Sloan and Maddox Mattingly were buried in a sand hole they had been playing in. The hole unexpectedly collapsed, trapping them beneath the surface. Emergency responders arrived quickly and used shovels and support boards to free them, but seven-year-old Sloan tragically did not survive. Her brother Maddox, aged nine, remains in critical condition.

The children’s mother, Therese Mattingly, expressed her heartbreak, describing Sloan as the “purest human being.” What was meant to be a joyful vacation turned into an unimaginable nightmare. The community responded with sympathy, launching a GoFundMe campaign that quickly gathered support for the grieving family.

Witnesses at the beach recalled the chaos of the rescue efforts, and the incident has prompted renewed calls for beach safety. Experts warn that digging deep holes in sand poses serious risks, as collapses can happen without warning. The American Lifeguard Association is now urging for more visible safety messaging and better prevention strategies on public beaches.

As condolences continue to pour in, Sloan is remembered as a bright and joyful child. Her tragic loss highlights the fragility of life and serves as a powerful reminder for families to stay vigilant—even in places that feel safe and familiar. The investigation remains ongoing.