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SPANISH FORK — A 2-year-old boy who apparently wandered off during a sports practice was found deceased in a canal Friday, police said.
The tragic incident happened in Spanish Fork. Police were called to the American Leadership Academy, 898 W. 1100 South, about 8:45 a.m. on a report of a missing 2-year-old child. Police asked the public at that time to help them look for Emmett Burrell.
"The child was at the football field with his father who assists with coaching. The child was last seen on camera exiting the football area to the west on Mill Road," Spanish Fork police said in a statement.
Police and volunteers began searching the area around the school. About 10:15 a.m., Emmett was found submerged in an irrigation canal near a debris gate about a quarter-mile away from the football field. Police say there is about 4 feet of water in the canal.
"Spanish Fork fire and EMS began lifesaving measures but the child was pronounced deceased. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family as well as the (American Leadership Academy) community," police said.
A GoFundMe* campaign was established to help the family pay for funeral costs.
"Emmett was loved by so many and will be dearly missed by his parents, Caitlyn and Lance, his sister, Harper, and many family and friends," the campaign states.
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
Correction: In a previous version Emmett's name was reported incorrectly as Emit.
