A loved one of a bereaved family who recently lost their little boy has started a GoFundMe page to assist the family with medical and funeral costs.

After a 3-year-old boy was reported missing in Corinna, Maine on January 12, 2025, the Maine Department of Public Safety officials confirmed that he passed away. According to state officials, the boy’s father found him outside in the snow near the residence where he was reported missing.

State officials suspect the toddler died from exposure to the harsh winter elements, though the official cause of death will be determined following an autopsy conducted by the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office.

The incident unfolded early in the morning when the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office received a call around 8:30 a.m. from a concerned woman reporting that her young nephew had gone missing from a home on Exeter Road.

Shortly after, the boy’s father made the heartbreaking discovery. “Regretfully, the male child succumbed to injuries which appear to be consistent with exposure to the elements,” reads a message from state officials.

Authorities have also confirmed that this was an isolated incident and assured the public that there is no ongoing safety concern.

In a statement addressing the loss, a spokesperson for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services expressed their deep sorrow, stating, “The loss of a child is devastating and tragic. Our condolences are with the family and those impacted.”

Due to confidentiality laws and the sensitive nature of the case, officials declined to provide further comment. News Center Maine reports that the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit is leading the investigation with support from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office and Maine DHHS.

To support the grieving family during this unimaginably difficult time, the boy’s aunt, Desiree Ambrose, launched a GoFundMe campaign seeking assistance with funeral, memorial, and medical expenses.

The GoFundMe page features a touching photo of the bright-eyed boy smiling sweetly with his mom, his curly blonde hair and cheerful demeanor capturing the joy he brought to those around him. “The sudden and unexpected loss of this 3 year old boy has left his mom, dad and 2 siblings completely heart broken [sic],” penned Ambrose in her heartfelt plea to the public.

She continued, “He was such a strong loving caring funny happy little boy. He loves his family with such unconditional love and was loved back so unconditionally by everyone that knew him. He passed away 1/12/2025 due to a horrific incident [sic].”

Ambrose then pleaded, “Please anyone. Everything and anything is very much appreciated. Thank you and please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as we continue this long journey to get this little boy to rest where he belongs at home with his family.” The campaign set a goal of $10,000, and as of now, it has raised $5,590 through 142 donations.

The boy’s aunt also took to Facebook to share the GoFundMe page she created for her late nephew, drawing attention to the family’s need for financial assistance during this devastating time.

Among the many heartfelt comments on Ambrose’s post was a deeply emotional message from the boy’s grieving mother, Jada Haddad. “Thank you for doing this for joesiah Desiree Ambrose [sic],” expressed Haddad at the beginning of her message.

The heartbroken mom also revealed the immense pain and emptiness she feels in the wake of her loss, sharing, “i cant wait until my baby boy is home and at rest…home does not feel like home anymore…i feel so empty [sic]…”

On January 14, 2025, just a day after Ambrose posted about the GoFundMe campaign, Haddad re-shared her sister’s post with a heart-wrenching message of her own.

In her emotional statement, Haddad reiterated her longing to bring her son home and lay him to rest, emphasizing the immense loss her family is grappling with.

“Anything helps even just words of wisdom…prayers…please keep my baby in your thoughts,” added the bereaved mother.

Haddad went on to divulge, “it just crushes me….it will never be the same again….home will never be home again [sic]….”

Her heartfelt message resonated deeply with those who saw it, as many social media users expressed their devastation and their willingness to help out in any way they can.

At this incredibly difficult time, we extend our most heartfelt condolences to Haddad, her son’s dad, siblings, and other loved ones who are mourning the tragic loss of the little boy. We also hope for their healing amid their time of grief.