An Illinois family has been confronted with the cruelty of life in the loss of their 3-year-old son, brother, and nephew. The toddler, Kaseyn Clifton, was staying at his aunt’s house in Decatur, Illinois, along with his siblings while their mother, Jessica Lee Mares, ran errands. That Saturday, May 24, 2025, Kaseyn was able to unlock the home’s back door, and no one noticed him slip outside.
Shortly after his escape, he fell into the pool. Kaseyn’s older brother called police to explain that they found the toddler in the pool and he wasn’t breathing.
Kaseyn’s mom was only gone for 15 minutes.
When Kaseyn’s mother returned after her 15-minute errand run she found the back door open, The Kansas City Star reported. The family searched the backyard before they discovered Kaseyn’s body. First responders attempted life-saving measures.
Eventually, they transported him to the hospital, ABC 20 reported. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Deputies are not pursuing criminal charges in this case and the investigation has concluded.
His obituary described his character and favorite pastimes.
Now, his family is sharing the beauty of this brief life. “Full of life and energy, he had a smile that could light up any room and a giggle that will echo in our hearts forever. He loved playing with blocks, doing puzzles, watching Cocomelon, blowing bubbles, playing at the park, learning his ABC’s/counting and cuddling with mommy and daddy,” his obituary reads.
This is not the first child the family has lost.
Kaseyn is survived by his parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. He has six living siblings and was preceded in death by his sister Laynie. In her Facebook post memorializing her late son, Mares wrote that the family has suffered an unimaginable loss and that “life is so unfair.”
The family asked people to hold their children tighter.
“Our hearts are broken, and there are no words for the pain we are feeling,” she continued. “Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we try to navigate this devastating time… This world will never be the same without you! We love you my beautiful son!”
Instead of flowers, the family has asked that friends and family honor Kaseyn by hugging their own little ones tighter. They also suggested spreading kindness in his name.
