Curtis Brown and his family are mourning the loss of their two-year-old son, Haze, who drowned in a tragic accident. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $77,000 for funeral expenses.
Washington DC, United States Jul 30, 2026 ALN: Former BYU Cougars football player Curtis Brown and his family, including his wife Kim, are grieving after a horrific drowning accident led to the death of their two-year-old son, Haze. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through their community, highlighting the often-overlooked dangers associated with pools, particularly for young children.
Haze tragically drowned in the pool at the Brown family residence in Clovis, California, on July 26, as reported by local authorities. This heartbreaking event has raised awareness about child safety around water, emphasizing the critical importance of supervision and safety measures in homes with pools.
A GoFundMe page was started by Chandler Pearson, a family friend, who wrote on the site that the Brown family is dealing with an "unimaginable loss." Pearson's heartfelt message resonated with many, as he described the profound grief that the family is experiencing. "Kim and Curtis recently lost their miracle baby, Haze, in a tragic drowning accident. No words can ease the heartbreak they are facing as they grieve the loss of their precious son," he wrote.
The GoFundMe campaign aims to support the Brown family during this incredibly difficult time, allowing them to focus on healing without the added stress of financial burdens. Pearson encouraged those who know and love the Browns to contribute, stating, "Many of you know and love Kim, Curtis, and their family, and have reached out asking how you can support them during this incredibly difficult time. One meaningful way to help is by contributing to this GoFundMe campaign. Your donation will help ease the financial burden of funeral expenses and other unexpected costs, allowing the Brown family to focus on healing and being together."
As of the latest updates, the GoFundMe page had received $77,375 in donations, with a goal of reaching $100,000. The outpouring of support reflects the deep love and compassion that the community has for the Brown family during this tragic time. Pearson's message continued, "Every act of kindness, no matter the size, reminds them that they are surrounded by a community that loves them deeply. Thank you for your generosity, compassion, and support during this heartbreaking time." This community response highlights the critical role that social networks play in times of crisis, providing emotional and financial support to grieving families.
The circumstances surrounding Haze's drowning are particularly tragic. According to reports from the New York Post, a family member found Haze unresponsive in the pool and immediately called 911. Emergency responders, including police, EMTs, and firefighters, arrived quickly on the scene, and attempts at CPR were made. Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, and Haze was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later declared deceased.
Clovis Police Department spokesman Ty Wood commented on the incident, emphasizing the importance of water safety. "Itβs an extremely unfortunate situation," he said, adding, "adults should never let children swim unsupervised and should always learn CPR and keep rescue equipment nearby." His statement serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities that come with pool ownership, particularly in homes with young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents and caregivers take proactive measures to ensure the safety of children around water, which includes constant supervision and the use of barriers such as pool fences.
In addition to Haze, Brown and his wife are the parents of five children, including son Trey and triplets Cruze, Julie, and Kash. The loss of Haze has undoubtedly left a significant void in their family, and the emotional impact of such a tragedy can be profound and long-lasting. Grief experts emphasize the importance of seeking support during such times, whether through counseling, community support, or family connections. The Brown family's situation is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.
Curtis Brown's legacy extends beyond his family; he is also remembered for his contributions to BYU football. He played five seasons with the Cougars from 2002 to 2006, including a redshirt sophomore campaign in 2003. Brown's performance on the field was notable, particularly in the 2004 season when he racked up 789 yards on 158 carries with six touchdowns, establishing himself as a key player for the team. He continued to excel, leading the Mountain West Conference with 14 rushing touchdowns in 2005 while tallying 1,123 yards on 210 carries, alongside 454 receiving yards on 53 receptions with two additional scores through the air.
In his final year at BYU, Brown achieved impressive statistics, accumulating 1,010 rushing yards and 566 receiving yards, contributing to a total of 10 touchdowns over 13 games. His career at BYU concluded with remarkable stats: 3,241 rushing yards and 1,309 receiving yards with 36 touchdowns over 52 games. His achievements in college football solidified his place in BYU history, where he held the rushing record until it was broken by Harvey Unga in 2009.
Following his college career, Brown pursued a professional football career and signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2007. However, his time with the Bengals was short-lived, as he was released before the start of the regular season after making four preseason appearances. The transition from college to professional sports can be challenging for many athletes, and Brown's experience reflects the uncertainties that come with pursuing a career in sports.
As the Brown family navigates this devastating loss, they are likely to reflect on the memories they shared with Haze, cherishing the moments that brought joy to their lives. The support from the community, as evidenced by the GoFundMe campaign, serves as a testament to the impact that Haze had on those around him, even in his short time on earth. The tragedy has not only affected the Brown family but has also sparked conversations about child safety, the importance of supervision, and the need for education on CPR and emergency response measures.
In times of grief, communities often come together to support one another, and the Brown family's experience is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community solidarity. As they begin to heal from this unimaginable loss, the Browns will undoubtedly carry Haze's memory with them, honoring his life through the love and support they receive from friends, family, and the wider community.
BYU has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the incident or the impact it may have on the community and the university's alumni network. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the connections that exist within sports communities and the ripple effects that such events can have on the lives of those involved.
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