Gone Too Soon: Chandler Community Mourns 3-Year-Old Trigg Kiser After Tragic Pool Accident Leaves Family and Nation Heartbroken
Chandler, AZ – A wave of sorrow has swept across the city of Chandler and beyond, as the community comes to terms with the heartbreaking loss of 3-year-old Trigg Kiser, who passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2025. His death comes nearly a week after a tragic accident in which he was found unresponsive in a backyard swimming pool near Gilbert and Riggs roads on May 12.
What began as a typical spring day turned into every parent’s nightmare. According to initial reports, emergency responders were called to a residential home just after 5 p.m. after little Trigg was discovered in the family’s pool. Despite immediate efforts to revive him, he had gone without oxygen for several critical minutes. First responders performed CPR at the scene before rushing him to a nearby hospital, where he remained on life support for several days.
Trigg’s parents, surrounded by family and friends, remained by his side throughout his hospitalization, clinging to hope and faith while facing unimaginable heartbreak. Medical teams worked tirelessly, but the damage caused by the lack of oxygen was ultimately irreversible. On the evening of May 18, surrounded by loved ones, Trigg passed away.
His death has sent shockwaves not only through Chandler but throughout Arizona and the country. Messages of condolence and support have poured in by the thousands. Friends, neighbors, and complete strangers have rallied to show love for the Kiser family, many expressing how deeply Trigg’s story has touched them.
Trigg was described by those who knew him as a bright, curious, and loving little boy whose presence brought light into every room. His infectious smile, playful energy, and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
“He was the heartbeat of our family,” said a close relative in a public statement. “He was full of life, full of love, and he gave us three beautiful years we will cherish forever.”
A growing memorial now sits outside the Kiser home, where community members have left flowers, stuffed animals, handwritten notes, and balloons. Candlelight vigils have already been held in local parks and churches, where residents joined in prayer, remembering Trigg and standing in solidarity with his grieving family.
Safety officials have once again emphasized the importance of pool safety, particularly as Arizona enters its hottest months. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children in the state. Local officials urge families to install barriers, alarms, and always remain vigilant when children are near water.
“We’re heartbroken for this family,” said Chandler Fire Department spokesperson Lt. Maria Ortega. “We never want to see another child go through this. Water safety is crucial, and tragedies like this are stark reminders of how quickly things can go wrong.”
In the wake of the accident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help support the Kiser family with medical expenses, funeral arrangements, and time away from work as they grieve. The fundraiser has already garnered an overwhelming response, raising tens of thousands of dollars in just days—further proof of the impact Trigg’s story has had on so many.
Funeral arrangements are currently being made, and the family has requested privacy as they prepare to lay their beloved son to rest. However, they have expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from both local residents and people around the nation.
“We feel your prayers,” the family shared in an update on social media. “Your messages, your kindness, your generosity—it’s holding us up right now. Thank you for helping us carry this pain.”
As Chandler mourns the loss of a little boy taken far too soon, the community also honors the short but meaningful life of Trigg Kiser. His memory, vibrant spirit, and the love he gave in his three years on earth will not be forgotten.
Trigg’s story serves as both a tragic reminder and a call to action—urging families, caregivers, and communities to redouble efforts around water safety and child supervision. In honoring his memory, many hope to prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
A memorial service will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, residents continue to light candles, share stories, and grieve together—united in heartbreak, and in love for a little boy who left an indelible mark on their hearts.