Just 13 months ago, Jafria and Michael Thoeming happily welcomed Cyra Rose Thoeming into the world. Tragically, after not even two months since celebrating their daughter’s first birthday, the couple faces the unbearable sorrow of laying their cherished baby to rest, whom they affectionately referred to as their ‘light’.
On July 6, Cyra was inadvertently run over by her mother’s vehicle while strapped in her car seat on the ground, leading to her passing later in the hospital.
The Thoeming family, residing in Arizona (USA) and recently commemorating Cyra’s milestone first birthday, is now grappling with preparations for the toddler’s funeral, following her untimely demise outside their Cottonwood home, approximately 160 kilometers north of Phoenix.
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Authorities reported that Jafria Thoeming, the mother, positioned little Cyra – still secured in her car seat – “in the gravel next to the residence” while maneuvering her vehicle out of a tight spot, leading to the tragic accident.
“The vehicle was parked in the gravel next to the residence. As she maneuvered the vehicle out of a tight space, the mother positioned the child in the car seat in a location she believed was safe,” the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) stated. “During the repositioning of the vehicle, the front tire struck the canopy of the car seat, causing it to fall backward and critically injuring the child.
Despite life-saving efforts, Cyra was declared deceased at the Verde Valley Medical Center.
Jafria fondly remembers her daughter as a joyful girl who adored laughter. She revealed that the name “Cyra” signifies light in various languages.
“Cyra Rose was the beacon of light in my life… She was so loved and meant so much to me for many years. I truly felt whole with her,” expressed Jafria on the GoFundMe page arranged to assist with the funeral expenses.
The GoFundMe campaign has raised over $18,000 and has been closed after exceeding its target.
Back on May 25, 2022, Jafria posted on Facebook introducing little Cyra to their loved ones. The image displayed the baby peacefully sleeping with a framed pregnancy test showing the details, “Cyra Rose Thoeming. Born May 16, 2022.”
In response to the outpouring of support, Jafria shared, “Thank you! I’m deeply in love with her!”
As per Jafria’s Facebook profile, she previously worked as a real estate agent and is currently listed as a bank teller, while Cyra’s father, Michael, works as a waiter at a local restaurant, as per available online information about him.
On July 8, Michael expressed on his Facebook page, “I will always be your father, the greatest title I’ve ever held… Every waking moment is dedicated to being the man you shaped me into. I love you Cyra Rose.”
Relatives and friends have shown immense support with heartfelt messages and financial contributions for the grieving couple.
“No words can express… Sending all the love in the world to you during this extraordinarily difficult period,” commented a friend on Michael’s Facebook, while Cyra’s aunt shared, “My niece! Neither you nor Jafria deserved this! I’m so sorry, I love you both deeply, and pray to God to be with my brother and his wife, and to hold Cyra in His embrace since we can’t.”
Jafria reminisces about her daughter’s vibrant character, highlighting Cyra’s sociable nature, early development in walking, talking, singing, and dancing. “She greeted everyone with a wave, ensuring they saw her smile, brightening their day. She was beautiful, funny, and intelligent, incredibly so! She amazed me daily with her intelligence. She had numerous friends, displayed kindness, and possessed the biggest, kindest heart. Seeing her interact with her father daily brought me immense joy, and I eagerly anticipated sharing the world with her. In the brief time she had, we provided her with a rich life, for which I am thankful. A part of me will forever be missing, and nothing will ever be the same… This is a hardship we never foresaw encountering in our lives.”
Currently, authorities have not pressed charges, but the YCSO Criminal Investigations Bureau continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the child’s tragic demise.
This is indeed a heart-wrenching tale. Our heartfelt condolences and thoughts go out to Cyra’s family as they navigate through this trying time.
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