Community mourns drownings of 2 toddlers in LaBelle

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LABELLE, Fla.- Friends and family are mourning the loss of two children, who deputies say drowned right near their home.

It happened Sunday at the A. Duda and Sons labor camp off State Road 29.

Deputies say the drownings happened behind the trailers on the property where the little boys parents were staying.

The 3-year-old boy, identified as Alex Matias Martinez, had been located by his father, Adrian Matias, in a canal near their home. Emergency personnel on scene had placed the young child inside the ambulance where paramedics performed CPR in an effort to resuscitate him.

A short time later, additional personnel arrived on scene and later located the 4-year-old, identified as Noel Matias Martinez, in the canal.

Authorities say both parents thought the children were with the other parent. At the time they were noticed missing, the parents attempted to locate them for about one hour before law enforcement was called.

“This is a tragic situation,” said Hendry County Sheriff Steve Whidden.  “We know how incredibly painful this is for the family.  Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they come to terms with their loss”.

A. Duda and Sons released the following statement regarding the accidental drowning:

We want to express our sadness; Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of these children. At this time we do not know the circumstances surrounding this event and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they investigate.  This is a tragedy for all of us and we ask for everyone’s thoughts and prayers for the family.

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