Toddler drowns in lake near Putnam County home, officials say

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PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. — A toddler is dead after being found in a lake in Putnam County, according to the Sheriff's Office.

According to investigators, the toddler was phoned in as missing at 8:15. An hour later, a deputy found the little boy in the water.

They believe he wandered into the yard across the street and down to the lake.

Jackson’s oldest sister, Brandina Taggart, said, “I didn’t even get to tell him I loved him before he was gone.”

Both of the sisters said they’re amazed at the way the community is showing up to help the family, visiting and bringing food.

Jelena said, “It’s, like, very warming to the heart to know that people are there for you even if you don’t know them, that there are good people out in the world even if there are bad things going on.”

The girls said pictures don’t capture the charisma of their adventurous, outgoing little brother.

Brandina noted that, “I won’t get to spend any more holidays with him.”

“Jackson, I’m going to miss you a lot. I know you’re in a better place and I’m going to come see you one day but until then, I’m going miss you,” Jelena said.

The family told Rousseau they've set up a GoFunMe account.

This is the second recent drowning of a toddler in our area. In April, a 2-year-old drowned in a retention pond in Baker County.

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