3-Year-Old Kyrie Larry with Autism Tragically Drowns in Pond After Wandering from Home in Palm Harbor, Florida: Community Mourns Loss of Young Life as Family Calls for Increased Child Safety Awareness

Palm Harbor, FL — April 13, 2025 — A community in Pinellas County is left devastated after a heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on Sunday afternoon, when a 3-year-old boy, identified as Kyrie Larry, tragically drowned in a nearby pond just hours after wandering away from his home. The incident has left family, friends, and local residents grappling with the loss of an innocent child, while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unfathomable tragedy.

A Fateful Afternoon in Palm Harbor

The tragic event occurred at an apartment complex in Palm Harbor, where Kyrie had been playing with his siblings inside their residence earlier that day. According to reports from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Kyrie, who was non-verbal and had autism, wandered away from the apartment without his parents noticing.

At some point during the afternoon, Kyrie made his way out of the apartment and into a nearby pond located near the complex. The pond, which is not usually frequented by residents, is said to be situated in a quiet area just outside the apartment complex. Authorities believe Kyrie likely became disoriented and, due to his young age and developmental challenges, was unable to find his way back or alert anyone for help.

A Devastating Discovery

Kyrie’s parents, who had been unaware that their son had wandered outside, began to search for him once they realized he was missing. Family members, neighbors, and local residents immediately joined the search, and the police were called shortly afterward.

At approximately 3:45 p.m., deputies from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene. Tragically, just minutes later, they discovered Kyrie’s body in the pond. First responders rushed to provide medical assistance, but despite their best efforts, Kyrie was pronounced dead at the scene.

Family’s Heartbreak and Community Support

Kyrie Larry’s family is understandably devastated by the loss of their young child. His mother, Shanice Larry, spoke out through a statement shared by the family, expressing her unimaginable grief over the tragic accident.

“My heart is shattered. My baby boy was everything to me,” said Shanice, her voice breaking. “Kyrie had such a sweet soul. He didn’t deserve this. He was just a child, and he had so much more life to live.”

The family has received an outpouring of support from the community, with neighbors, friends, and local organizations offering condolences, as well as raising funds to cover funeral expenses. Many in the Palm Harbor area have expressed how deeply Kyrie’s death has affected them, recalling his joyful spirit and how much he meant to the community.

“We are all hurting. We didn’t just lose a child; we lost a member of our Palm Harbor family,” said Monica Matthews, a neighbor who had known Kyrie and his family for years. “Kyrie was always smiling, and his energy lit up the room. It’s just so tragic.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help the family with funeral costs and to provide support during this incredibly difficult time. The family has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming love and assistance they have received from the community, which has helped them through this unimaginable loss.

A Call for Increased Awareness and Safety Measures

In the wake of Kyrie’s death, many community members are calling for increased awareness of the risks associated with children wandering off, particularly for those with autism or developmental disabilities. Kyrie’s parents have expressed their hope that this tragedy will serve as a reminder of the need for greater attention to child safety, especially in apartment complexes where access to bodies of water may be a hidden danger.

Kyrie’s mother has shared her hope that families with young children, especially those with special needs, will take extra precautions to ensure their children’s safety. “Please, make sure your children are safe. Don’t take a second for granted. My heart aches for my baby,” she said.

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that there will be no charges in connection to Kyrie’s death, as it is being investigated as an accident. However, they have issued a public reminder about the dangers of open bodies of water and the importance of constant supervision, particularly when children with developmental disabilities are involved.

A Legacy of Love and Remembrance

As the community mourns the loss of Kyrie Larry, residents are working together to ensure that his memory lives on. A memorial vigil is scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Palm Harbor Park, where Kyrie’s family, friends, and the community at large will gather to honor his life. Attendees are encouraged to bring candles, flowers, and share stories of the young boy who was loved by so many.

A local charity has also committed to creating a scholarship fund in Kyrie’s name, with the aim of helping children with autism and their families receive the support and resources they need to thrive. The initiative has been welcomed by the family as a way to continue Kyrie’s legacy of love and kindness.

Final Thoughts: A Community United in Grief

The death of Kyrie Larry has left an indelible mark on the Palm Harbor community. His tragic passing reminds us all of the fragile nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones. While the pain of losing a child is unimaginable, the support that has poured in from Kyrie’s family, friends, and community members demonstrates the power of unity in the face of loss.

As the family mourns the loss of their sweet child, they continue to honor his memory and cherish the precious moments they had together. Though Kyrie’s life was tragically short, his spirit and the love he brought to those around him will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Kyrie Larry. You will always be loved and remembered.