GoFundMe launched for Pegram family after 3-year-old’s death

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of a 3-year-old Pegram boy who died Aug. 11 after he was found inside an inoperable vehicle during a period of extreme heat.

The fundraiser, organized by Makayla Jackson on behalf of the boy’s mother, Amber Myrick Jackson, is seeking to raise $5,000 to help the family cover everyday expenses while Amber takes time away from work to grieve.

“Amber’s 3-year-old son passed away in a tragedy, and their family is now trying to hold one another up through heartbreak no parent should ever have to endure,” Jackson wrote in the fundraiser description.

Donations will help with expenses including food and bills while Amber is away from work. The family is also asking those who cannot contribute financially to keep them in their prayers.

The child, Drakon Steve Hall, died Aug. 11 at age 3. According to his obituary, Drakon was born Feb. 9, 2023, in Nashville to Chester Hall and Amber Myrick Jackson.

Drakon was remembered by his family as a fearless, determined and loving little boy who adored his parents and siblings. His interests included dinosaurs, Transformers, trucks, cars, swimming and spending time outdoors.

“He gave joy beyond belief,” his obituary states.

Funeral services for Drakon were held Tuesday, Aug. 18, at Taylor Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to Taylor Funeral Home to help with end-of-life expenses.

The death occurred as Middle Tennessee was experiencing dangerous summer heat. The heat index in the area reached as high as 110 degrees that day.

Local emergency responders have emphasized the danger of children being left in vehicles during extreme heat. Even on days that do not feel exceptionally hot, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise rapidly.

Cheatham County Emergency Medical Services, the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office and the Pegram Fire Department responded to the scene on Navaho Trail on Aug. 11. Lt. Shannon Heflin of the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office told reporters deputies were dispatched around 4 p.m. amid reports of a missing child. 

A relative and the children present had allegedly laid down for a nap around 1 p.m., Heflin said. It is believed the boy woke while the others were still sleeping, wandered outside to the van on the property, got inside and was unable to get out. He died from complications due to the heat.

Heflin said an investigation is ongoing and no criminal charges have been filed.

“This is one of those things we’re just investigating now as a very tragic incident, and hopefully we can help get the family some closure. The most important thing here today is to educate the general public how hot it is out here today and make sure you don’t leave a child inside your vehicle,” Heflin said.