A three-year-old girl died after her head became trapped in a play kitchen at her babysitter's home in Boynton Beach, Florida, according to an autopsy report. Briella Holmes passed away on July 27, four days after the incident, which occurred on July 23.
The medical examiner determined the cause of death was probable positional asphyxia, which occurs when oxygen is cut off from the brain. The report also noted injuries to the child's eyes, heart, and lungs. Boynton Beach Police have identified the toy as a play kitchen and have shared an image of it as a warning to parents. The department stated that the play set had no identifying markings for its brand, make, or model, but similar replica sets are sold online for approximately $100.
Briella and her four-year-old brother were dropped off at the babysitter's residence on Sandpiper Way on the morning of July 23. The babysitter reportedly left the home to go to the store, leaving the children in the care of her husband, Kerven Oreste. Oreste remained upstairs while the children played downstairs, periodically checking on them.
At approximately 11 a.m., Oreste discovered Briella with her head stuck in a small opening in the toy kitchen, described as an "oven." She was found unresponsive. Oreste removed her from the toy and called his wife, who then contacted a neighbor. The neighbor performed CPR, and emergency services were called at 11:07 a.m. Briella was transported to St. Mary's Medical Center, where she was diagnosed with an anoxic brain injury and later declared brain dead.
Detective Jervis Daley stated there was no visual trauma to the body or suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. The toy kitchen was purchased second-hand via Facebook Marketplace. Investigators were unable to identify the brand, but similar toys are available for purchase online. Police have advised parents to be cautious of similar play sets.
Briella's parents, Suzi and Jason Holmes, described their daughter as "pure joy in a tiny, stubborn, independent little package" in a tribute to the Daily Mail. They remembered her as a child who loved to sing and lit up a room. They also noted her adoration for her older brother, Brock. The family has launched a fundraiser to cover funeral and memorial expenses.