A British toddler, Hartley Wareham, 28 months old, has died after being found unresponsive in a swimming pool at a holiday villa in Spain. The incident occurred while Hartley was on holiday with family and friends.
Hartley is the younger brother of Jayden Wareham, a professional footballer who plays for League Two side Exeter City. According to reports, Hartley's father discovered him in the pool and began CPR while neighbors contacted emergency services. Paramedics were able to restore the toddler's heartbeat before he was rushed to a hospital.
Despite intensive treatment, Hartley's condition deteriorated. He passed away on July 3rd, five days after the incident. An inquest opened in Exeter, Devon, heard that his mother took over CPR efforts before paramedics arrived. The area coroner, Alison Longhorn, stated that the cause of death included immersion in water, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The inquest has since been adjourned.
Hartley Wareham was born in March 2024 and lived in Ottery St Mary, Devon. His family described him as a child who filled their world with love, laughter, and happiness. They shared that his favorite things included the children's show 'Hey Duggee' and spending time in their garden. To honor his memory, the family is creating a bespoke memorial bench.
Exeter City Football Club released a statement offering sincere condolences to the Wareham family and stating their support for Jayden during this difficult time. The club also requested that the privacy of Jayden and his family be respected.