Inverness, Fla. – Two teenage boys have died after a hand-dug hole collapsed at a public park in Citrus County, according to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. The incident occurred Sunday at Sportsman Park in Inverness and has deeply shaken the local community.
Incident Happened at Sportsman Park
Deputies said the teens were digging a tunnel in sugar sand at Sportsman Park when the structure suddenly collapsed. Early reports indicated that one boy had died while the other was in critical condition.
As of January 13 at around 4:25 a.m., CCSO confirmed that the second teenager was also pronounced deceased. Authorities said the boys were best friends.
Tunnel Collapse Details
According to family members, who shared details through an online fundraiser, the boys were inside the tunnel they had dug when it gave way without warning.
Deputies reported that the teens were approximately four to five feet underground and were likely using some type of shovel while digging.
First responders worked for about 30 minutes to dig the boys out of the collapsed sand.
Family and Sheriff’s Office Statements
The family described the loss as sudden and devastating.
“In an instant, our world was shattered. What should have been another day of childhood adventure turned into a heartbreaking loss that no parent should ever have to endure. Our precious boys were taken from us far too soon,” the family said.
In a statement, CCSO expressed condolences to those affected.
“Our hearts are with both families as they grieve the tremendous loss of their sons. We hope the community will continue to respect their privacy and unite in remembering and celebrating both boys,” the sheriff’s office said.
School District Offers Support
Inverness Middle School confirmed that both boys were students at the school. Administrators said counselors, social workers, and school psychologists will be available on campus throughout the week to support students and staff.
In a statement to families, the school said:
“It is with great sadness that we inform our Charger community of a tragedy that occurred over the weekend involving two of our students following an off-campus incident… We extend our heartfelt thoughts and support to the students, families, and all those impacted.”
Community Mourning
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief across Inverness and Citrus County, with residents expressing sympathy for the families and calling for awareness about the dangers of digging in unstable sand, even in recreational settings.
Authorities have not indicated that the incident is under criminal investigation and continue to ask the public to respect the families’ privacy during this time of mourning.
