Grandma talks about a 5-year-old accident victim

MILWAUKEE – Cassandra Harriell is in deep sadness after losing 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 he was involved in an accident near North 81st Street and Hampton Avenue.

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

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

According to Milwaukee police, speed was a major factor in the crash. A report from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office shows the driver was possibly under the influence of alcohol. Investigators believe the children were traveling in the front seats, without seat belts. Booster seats were located at the rear of the vehicle.

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

Watch: Grandma talks about a five-year-old who died in an accident:

“It just broke me”: Grandma talks about 5-year-old accident victim

“It just broke me because he didn’t deserve it. He won’t live to see his sixth birthday. He won’t finish school with his brother or ride a bike,” Harriell explained. “The same person who was supposed to love and protect them – their father. It’s the worst pain you can ever feel.”

Jaylon is currently staying with his grandmother and waiting to return home, where he shared a room with his brother.

Teaira Harriell shared photos of her twins, Jaylen and Jaylon.

From visits to their grandmother’s house, to the cinema, to starting school – the identical twins did everything together with great joy.

“I told him this morning. She is in heaven and he replied: «No, Grandma, he is in the hospital. He’s coming home». How will you explain to him that he will never come back?” Harriell said through tears.

Jaylen’s handprints now hang on Harriell’s wall, surrounded by photos 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 almost here.

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

“Just 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 evening. The Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing potential charges.

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