Toddler Found Dead In Canal Behind Bradenton Apartments: Police

BRADENTON, FL — The body of a 2-year-old boy was found in a canal behind a Bradenton apartment complex Friday morning. Bradenton police believe he drowned.

Officers are investigating the death, which happened at the View Carlton Arms Apartments. While the apartment complex’s main address is 1191 Carlton Arms Circle, the toddler died in the 4000 block of Carlton Inlet Drive, police said.

A witness who pulled the child from the water called 911 around 10:30 a.m. EMS and police officers responded within 10 minutes.

The 2-year-old, who lived in the apartment complex, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. A time and cause of death will be determined by the medical examiner.

The child’s family was at their apartment when police arrived, and officers are working with them to learn about what happened surrounding the boy’s death and to provide support services.

“This is a sad reminder that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4,” Bradenton police said. “While most drownings in children 1 to 4 happen in swimming pools, drownings can happen anytime, including when children are not expected to be near water, such as when they gain unsupervised access to pools or other bodies of water.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Dalia Santana at 941-932-9355 or email BPDTips@BradentonPD.com.

To remain anonymous and eligible for a cash reward up to $3,000, submit tips to Crime Stoppers by calling 866-634-8477 or online at manateecrimestoppers.com.