Tacoma, Washington mother demands answers after 12-year-old son found dead in senior living facility

A Tacoma, Washington mother is demanding answers after her 12-year-old son was found dead inside a senior living complex last month.

Details: 12-year-old boy found deceased in senior living facility

Castonya Taylor said her son, Preston James Hemingway-Lux, died on September 19 in a unit at the Vintage at Tacoma apartments. The two had been staying there temporarily with a friend, reports KING 5.

“It was me and Preston against the world,” Taylor told KING 5. “Most of the time everything together.”

That morning, Taylor tried to wake Preston for school. He said he was too tired, just as he had the night before. Hours later, she found him unresponsive in the bedroom. A small amount of blood was visible near his nose and mouth.

“He didn’t move at all,” she recalled. “So I said, Preston. And then I got down next to him, and when I shook him, he was like heavy. And I just started screaming.”

Taylor called 911 and attempted CPR. “When I blew into him and his cheeks puffed up and then nothing,” she said. “That let me know he was already gone.”

Investigation

Preston’s death is being investigated as suspicious, according to Tacoma police. However, there were no signs of external trauma. The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office is working to determine the cause. The family was told they may receive answers within a few weeks.

Taylor described Preston as a loving child who gave her strength. “Thank you for showing me a love I will probably never get anywhere else,” she said. “For being strong when I needed him to be.

Preston James Hemingway-Lux’s family launches GoFundMe

In the wake of this tragedy, the family launched a GoFundMe to help cover unexpected memorial costs. “Sadly, at this time we still don’t know the cause of death,” the fundraiser states. “We are left questioning what might have led to this moment.”

“The shock and sadness of this loss are overwhelming,” the family wrote. “And while money is the last thing on our minds, the unexpected funeral expenses have added an additional burden during this already difficult time.”

As the investigation continues, Taylor remains focused on honoring her son’s memory and finding out what happened.

“Preston was the perfect son, brother, and friend. He was an exceptional student, an athlete who excelled in basketball, someone with a bright future ahead. But beyond the accomplishments and achievements, Preston was truly an incredible person. If you had the privilege of knowing him, you would understand just how wonderful he truly was.”

To learn more or donate, visit the GoFundMe campaign here.