Local News

GoFundMe started for family of Brockton 9-year-old who died of asthma attack

The fundraiser has already raised over $19,000 as of Friday.

A family is raising money for funeral expenses following the death of Davien Taylor Roberts who unexpectedly passed away on Sept. 3. GoFundMe

By Lindsay Shachnow

September 6, 2024

1 minute to read

A family is raising money for funeral expenses following the death of fourth grader Davien Taylor Roberts, who unexpectedly passed away from an asthma attack on Sept. 3.

Krista Roberts, Davien’s aunt, started a GoFundMe page to raise money to cover funeral costs.

The fundraiser has already raised over $19,000 as of Friday.

“Davien was a kind soul, who had the perfect smile and the biggest heart,” Roberts wrote on the fundraiser page. “He was respectful and loved by all who knew him.”

Crystal Cromwell, Davien’s grandmother, told WCVB Davien died in her arms.

“I’m numb,” she said. “He’s my baby.”

Davien passed away the day before his first day of fourth grade at the Mary E. Baker School in Brockton.

“The Baker community was very much looking forward to welcoming Davien – who has been an integral part of the Baker community since kindergarten – back to school yesterday morning along with his classmates, and his loss is one we’re all feeling,” the school said in a statement.

The school said it is providing adjustment counselors and members of the district’s Crisis Team as a resource for students and staff members.

Davien, a “loving kid who loved football,” Roberts said, played for the Brockton Raiders.

“Davien was not only a talented young athlete but also a bright spirit who brought joy and energy to every practice and game especially with his always present big smile,” the youth football program posted on Facebook. “The entire Brockton community mourns the loss of such a vibrant young life, and we will be here to support each other through this time of grief.”