CALCUTTA - St. Clair Township police are investigating a drowning death which occurred Tuesday evening.
According Chief Don Hyatt, a 2-year-old boy died in the family's backyard pool.
"Obviously, this is a tragedy, and everyone is in a great deal of shock," Hyatt said.
Police were called to 49249 Oakmont Ave. at about 6:30 p.m.
"A male toddler approximately two-and-a-half years of age was found in the family pool by his father. The toddler was obviously in a state of distress," Hyatt said.
St. Clair officers and an ambulance arrived quickly, according to the chief.
"The child was placed in an ambulance, and the ambulance was escorted by my people to the hospital," the chief said.
"Subsequently, the child was pronounced dead on arrival," Hyatt said in a somber tone.
The chief stressed that it appeared to be accidental.
"It's a completely tragic accident," Hyatt said. "The father was inside the home for a very short amount of time and during that time, the toddler must have gotten outside. A few seconds later, the father began a frantic search for the child."
The above-ground pool sits in the backyard.
Hyatt did not release the names of the victim or the homeowners since the investigation was still under way late Tuesday and two detectives were still at the scene.
The chief said he did not want to appear to be placing blame on anyone during such a tragedy, but he cautioned that during this time of year, "You have to be ever vigilant around swimming pools."
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