Josiah Toleafoa, a small boy, was on his way to Play City to celebrate his third birthday with other children when tragedy struck. A toddler was hit by a car in the parking lot of Play City, a family-friendly indoor party venue in Chula Vista, San Diego.
According to a witness to the horrific event, Josiah’s mother sobbed hysterically as paramedics struggled to save the small boy’s life.
Unfortunately, Josiah passed away in Rady Children’s Hospital, therefore the efforts were in vain. According to authorities, the car’s 36-year-old driver apparently stayed at the site and cooperated. According to the police, it doesn’t seem like using drugs or drinking contributed to the collision.
Family members used social media to create a GoFundMe page to raise money for Joseph’s funeral costs. They described the little boy as sweet and loving. “JOSIAH brought the family together- his incredible SMILE, LOVING HEART simply brought JOY to any room. There was no time to see him do amazing things. I KNOW HE WOULD HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD,” wrote a Tatiana Toleafoa, who identified herself as the boy’s aunt.
She added the reason for starting the campaign, “We’re doing this gofundme to help with my sweet nephew’s funeral expenses and services for the little angel that touched so many lives in so many different ways before he was called to Heaven. Any amount would help, anything at all. We are so thankful to have loving family and friends to be with us and love us through this horrible tragedy and want to be able to put him to rest to say goodbye and never forget the little boy who loved with a tremendous heart.”
The Play City owner said that he is giving the Josiah family $2,000 and that the landlord is matching that amount.
Although the case is still under investigation, no one has yet been taken into custody in relation to the accident.
What a tragic piece of news this is. We offer our sympathies to Josiah Toleafoa’s family during this difficult time. Please join us in praying for the family and thinking about them.