An 18-month-old toddler, Azariah Hough, tragically drowned after her father, Reynard Tyrone Hough, 33, fell asleep in a hot tub while holding her, police reported. The incident occurred on December 13 at an Airbnb in Florida, where the family had traveled from Washington, DC. Hough reportedly fell asleep for 15 to 20 minutes, and when he awoke, Azariah was unresponsive. Despite CPR attempts and emergency services rushing her to a nearby hospital, she was pronounced dead around 4:30 a.m.
Authorities said Hough admitted to consuming alcohol and taking two narcotics prior to entering the hot tub, which investigators say contributed to his negligence. He has been arrested and charged with child neglect causing great bodily harm and manslaughter by aggravated abuse of a child, and is currently held at the Osceola County Jail.
Family members expressed heartbreak, with Hough’s sister describing the devastating loss and recalling Azariah’s joyful personality. An obituary noted that Azariah, a lively and loved child, will be deeply missed by her siblings and extended family.
Police stressed the dangers of children around water, urging caregivers to remain vigilant and sober to ensure child safety.
