Entertainment

The two-year-old daughter of NFL star Shaquil Barrett has died after drowning in a swimming pool at the family’s home.

Police were called to a report that the child had fallen into a pool in the Beach Park area of south Tampa in Florida on Sunday morning.

Barrett’s youngest child, Arrayah, was taken to hospital and later died.

The toddler had celebrated her second birthday just two weeks earlier, with a baby shark-themed party attended by friends and family.

Barrett’s last post on Instagram was wishing his daughter happy birthday on 19 April, writing: “Happy 2nd bday to my cutie girl. So sweet and cute. You made our family complete. I love you baby girl.”

Police have said they do not believe the child’s death is suspicious “but a purely accidental and tragic incident”.

Barrett, 30, and his wife Jordanna have three other children – sons Shaquil Jr and Braylon, and daughter Aaliyah.

In a statement, Barrett’s NFL team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, said : “Today’s tragic news is heartbreaking for all members of the Buccaneers family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Shaq, Jordanna and the entire Barrett family during this unimaginably difficult time.

“While no words can provide true comfort at a time such as this, we offer our support and love as they begin to process this very profound loss of their beloved Arrayah.”

Barrett’s teammate and NFL icon Tom Brady paid tribute on Instagram, posting a picture of Barrett and his family, with the words “The Brady’s love you”.

Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson wrote on Twitter: “Heartbreaking. Praying for you and your family Shaq.”

Barrett, who is a linebacker, has played with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers since 2019 after spending the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos.