8-Year-Old Boy Identified in Tragic Drowning in Hoover Neighborhood
HOOVER, Ala. — A Hoover community is grieving after a heartbreaking incident Saturday evening claimed the life of an 8-year-old boy. Authorities confirmed the victim as Greyson Maiden, whose passing has left family, friends, and neighbors devastated.
The Incident
According to the Hoover Police Department, officers and fire medics were dispatched around 8:00 p.m. to a residence in the 2000 block of River Lake Drive, located in the Southlake subdivision. Reports indicated that a child had been discovered unresponsive in a private swimming pool.
Officials say Greyson was immediately pulled from the water, and life-saving measures were initiated on the scene. First responders worked urgently to revive him before transporting him to Children’s of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham. Despite their best efforts, Greyson was later pronounced deceased.
Authorities confirmed that Greyson did not live at the residence where the drowning occurred. How long he was in the water before being discovered remains under investigation.
Official Statements
Lt. Daniel Lowe of the Hoover Police Department provided details following the incident, emphasizing that emergency personnel responded swiftly once the 911 call was received.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking situation,” Lt. Lowe said. “Our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time. Incidents like these are devastating not only to loved ones but to the entire community.”
Shelby County Coroner Lina Evans later confirmed the boy’s identity as Greyson Maiden and noted that an official cause of death will be determined following further examination.
Community Mourning
The Southlake neighborhood, typically known as a quiet family community, was left shaken by the tragedy. Neighbors expressed shock and sadness upon learning of the drowning, with many describing the incident as a “nightmare scenario” no parent should ever face.
“This just breaks your heart,” one neighbor said. “Greyson was so young and had his whole life ahead of him. We’re all grieving for his family.”
Water Safety Awareness
This tragic loss also serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of water safety, particularly for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning remains one of the leading causes of unintentional injury deaths among children ages 1 to 14.
Authorities continue to urge parents and guardians to take precautions around pools, including constant supervision, pool barriers, and teaching children basic swimming and water safety skills.
Remembering Greyson
Greyson Maiden’s life, though heartbreakingly short, is being remembered for the joy and love he brought to those around him. Friends of the family describe him as a bright, energetic child whose smile could lift the spirits of everyone he met.
As loved ones mourn his loss, community members are rallying to offer support, prayers, and comfort to the grieving family.
Moving Forward
The Hoover Police Department and coroner’s office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning. At this time, officials have not suggested any foul play.
For now, Greyson’s family is left to navigate the unimaginable pain of losing a child, supported by a community that has come together in love and remembrance of his short but meaningful life.
