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Grandma speaks out about 5-year-old crash victim
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Grandma speaks out about 5-year-old crash victim

MILWAUKEE β€” Cassandra Harriell’s grief is heavy after she lost her 5-year-old grandson, Jaylen Sloan, in a car accident.

Jaylen and his twin brother, Jaylon, were riding in an SUV with their father last Friday when the father crashed near North 81st Street and Hampton Avenue.

“He had such a beautiful smile. He was so full of life, funny, and he loved his brother,” Harriell told TMJ4 News.

Cassandra Harriell holds a photo of her grandson Jaylen Sloan. A 5-year-old boy died after a car crash in Milwaukee.

Speed ​​is believed to be a factor in the crash, according to the Milwaukee Police Department. A report by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office states the driver is believed to be intoxicated. Investigators believe the children were traveling without seat belts in the front seat. The booster seats were in the rear of the vehicle.

Jaylen was taken to the hospital for his injuries, but his condition worsened. The 5-year-old boy died early Sunday morning.

Watch: Grandma speaks out about 5-year-old boy killed in crash:

‘He broke me’: Grandma speaks out about 5-year-old crash victim

“It makes me sad that he doesn’t deserve this. He won’t get to see his sixth birthday. He won’t get to graduate or ride a bike with his brother,” Harriell explained. “The person who is supposed to love and protect them is their father. This is the worst pain you can ever feel.”

For now, Jaylon is staying at his grandmother’s house and waiting to go home, where he shares a room with his brother.

Teaira Harriell shared these photos of her twin sons Jaylen and Jaylon.

From visiting grandma’s house to going to the movies to starting school, the identical twins enjoyed everything together.

“I told her this morning. She’s in heaven, and he said, ‘No, grandma, she’s in the hospital. She’s coming home.’ How do you explain to her that she’s never coming back?” Harriell said through tears.

Jaylen’s handprints are now on Harriell’s wall, surrounded by pictures of him and his brother.

Jaylen's grandmother received a copy of his handprints after his death.

The Halloween costume Jaylen will never wear is just around the corner.

These are all painful reminders as Harriell tries to stay strong for her family.

“Hug your children and love them. Please don’t drink and drive,” Harriell said.

Jaylen’s family plans to hold a vigil at the crash site Tuesday night. The Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing possible charges.


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