Jaysen Carr, 12, sadly died after being struck down by a deadly bacterial infection whilst visiting Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina which is popular for swimming, fishing and sailing
Jaysen Carr contracted the deadly disease after swimming in Lake Murray(Image: Gofundme)
A young boy has tragically died after he contracted a brain-eating infection whilst he went swimming at a popular lake.
Jaysen Carr, 12, was struck by Naegleria fowleri after taking a dip in Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina, US. The bacteria is often referred to as a brain-eating amoeba because it causes a brain infection that is usually fatal.
The schoolboy had no idea about the potential danger, as there had been no advisories about any bacteria in the lake. The swimming spot, which was once the largest man-made reservoir in the world, is visited by tens of thousands of people each year.
Sadly, after enjoying his time at the lake, Kaysen was diagnosed with the infection on July 7. His family issued a heartbreaking statement on Thursday, via their attorney, Tyler Bailey.
READ MORE: Boy, 7, dies after being infected with rare brain-eating amoeba while swimming in lake
Lake Murray is situated at Dreher Island(Image: Getty Images)
He told WIS News 10: “Jaysen’s family is grieving this unthinkable loss, but they are also grateful at the outpouring of love and support they have received from the community. The family has many questions about how and why Jaysen died and wants to do everything in their power to ensure this doesn’t happen to another family.”
He added: “Jaysen’s family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital – Midlands for their dedicated care and compassion for him and their entire family. We ask for privacy at this time as the family prepares to lay their son to rest.”
The schoolboy was diagnosed with the infection earlier this month(Image: Gofundme)
In a fundraiser, his loved ones said: “His kind heart and bright spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Jaysen bravely faced a tough medical battle, and while his strength inspired so many, the journey has left the Carr family with numerous unexpected expenses. As they navigate this heartbreaking loss, we want to come together to help ease their burden.”
South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) addressed the tragedy and said he was likely exposed to the bacteria at Lake Murray, reports Mail Online. It has been reported that 164 people in the US contracted the infection between 1962 and 2023. Official records state that only four survived.
Symptoms
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Cognitive issues
- Muscle ache such as a stiff neck
- Severe swelling
To donate to the fundraiser, visit here.