KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Authorities in central Florida are investigating the tragic death of 20-month-old Azariah Hough, who died after being found unresponsive in a hot tub at a short-term rental property in Kissimmee. Her father has been arrested in connection with the incident, according to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies and fire rescue crews were dispatched at approximately 3:30 a.m. on December 13, 2025, following a report of a toddler who appeared to have drowned. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures before transporting Azariah to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Investigators said the family was visiting from Washington, D.C., and staying at an Airbnb-style rental home at the time of the incident. During interviews with detectives, Azariah’s father, 33-year-old Reynard Tyrone Hough, allegedly stated that he brought his daughter into the hot tub and fell asleep while holding her.
According to law enforcement officials, Hough admitted he had been consuming alcohol that night and allegedly ingested two different narcotics before entering the hot tub. Detectives believe his impairment caused him to fall asleep, leaving the toddler in a life-threatening situation without proper supervision.
Based on the findings of the investigation, Hough was initially arrested on a charge of child neglect causing great bodily harm. On December 14, authorities added a more serious charge of aggravated manslaughter of a child.
Hough remains in custody at the Osceola County Jail as the investigation continues. Officials have not released additional details pending further review by prosecutors.
The death of Azariah Hough has sent shockwaves through the community and renewed conversations about the critical importance of constant supervision of young children, particularly around bodies of water. Family members and loved ones are left mourning the devastating loss of a life cut tragically short.