Boy, 3, drowns in swimming pool at home as heartbroken dad says ‘I failed’ after frantically trying to save toddler

A BOY has tragically drowned after being found in a swimming pool as his devastated father says he “failed” trying to save him.

Elijah Stephen, 3, tragically died after he drowned in his garden pool in New Jersey, US.

Grief-stricken father, Michael Stephen, recounted the moment he found his son lying face down in the water, in a devastating post to Facebook.

He said: “His lips were blue. He had no pulse. Sandi [Elijah’s mother] rushed to call 911”.

“The images will forever be burned into my mind.

“I wasn’t fast enough. I failed. And I will spend everyday of my life replaying that,” he said.

Michael was in the kitchen when his wife, Sandra “Sandi” Shevlin, appeared from the garden soaking wet on June 27.

“I see the back door has been opened and my heart sinks,” he said.

Elijah had slipped out of his home and drowned in the family’s pool.

Emergency services arrived within two minutes of their call but he later died due to the swelling on his brain.

“Even if he were to somehow miraculously survive, he would have no quality of life,” he said.

Elijah leaves behind two siblings, twin sister Ella, 3, and brother Mickey, 6.

A GoFundMe created by Elijah’s aunt, Brittnie Hutchinson, said: “Mickey’s needs are especially significant due to his autism, and the family will also face additional costs as they adjust to this new reality.”

“The funds raised will provide direct support for the family, allowing them the space to grieve and access therapy and specialized assistance for Ella and Mickey.”

Michael paid tribute to his son describing him as a “sweet and gentle soul,” who was a “kind-hearted kid with a huge smile that lit the room.”

“I’ll spend the rest of my days  wondering what could have been done. How Elijah could have changed the world,” he said.

“10 minutes can change your life. Don’t ever take it for granted.

“Hug your babies. Hug them longer, hug them tighter.

“Don’t hesitate to embarrass them with love in front of their friends.

“You never know when it will be the last.”