Josiah Toleafoa, a young boy full of life, was eagerly on his way to celebrate his third birthday at Play City, an indoor family-friendly venue in Chula Vista, San Diego, when a devastating event occurred. As they arrived, Josiah was tragically struck by a car in the parking lot.

A witness recalled the heart-wrenching scene where Josiah’s mother was overcome with grief as paramedics fought desperately to save his life. Despite their valiant efforts, Josiah sadly passed away at Rady Children’s Hospital.

The driver of the car, a 36-year-old, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with authorities. Police have ruled out drugs and alcohol as factors in the accident.

In the wake of this tragedy, family members turned to social media to set up a GoFundMe page to help cover Josiah’s funeral expenses. They remembered Josiah as a beacon of joy and love. “Josiah brought our family together with his incredible smile and loving heart. He brightened every room he entered. I know he would have made a difference in the world,” wrote Josiah’s aunt, Tatiana Toleafoa.

Tatiana also shared the purpose of the campaign: “We’re starting this GoFundMe to assist with my sweet nephew’s funeral expenses and services for the little angel who touched so many lives in such a profound way before he was called to Heaven. Any contribution would help. We are profoundly grateful for the love and support from our family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, and we want to ensure we give Josiah a proper farewell.”

The owner of Play City has also stepped forward to support the Toleafoa family, pledging $2,000 in assistance, with the venue’s landlord matching this amount.

While the investigation into the accident continues, no arrests have been made at this time.

This heartbreaking news weighs heavily on all our hearts. Our deepest condolences go out to Josiah Toleafoa’s family as they navigate through this unfathomable loss. Let us keep them in our thoughts and prayers during this sorrowful time.