Florida Community Mourns Two Best Friends Lost in Tragic Tunnel Collapse

Tragic Loss in Citrus County

• 💔 A tight-knit community in Citrus County is in deep grief following the deaths of two 14-year-old best friends, George Watts and Derek Hubard.
• 😔 The boys were reportedly digging a tunnel in a neighborhood sand pit on Sunday when it tragically collapsed on them.

Remembering the Teens

• 🌳 Family and friends remember the boys as adventurous and imaginative, encouraging them to "get outside and play."
• 🌟 They are described as "old school, old souls" who enjoyed playing outside, a stark contrast to today's technology-focused world.
• 🏆 The best friends, who were like brothers, recently won the Citrus NFL Flag Football League Championship and were noted for their leadership skills.

The Accident and Aftermath

• ⚠️ The sand pit tunnel was approximately four to five feet deep when it collapsed.
• 🆘 Their parents raised the alarm when the boys didn't answer their cell phones at lunchtime, later finding their bikes and shoes at the sand pit.
• 🏥 George Watts was flown to UF Shands in Gainesville in critical condition and later died; Derek Hubard was pronounced dead at the scene.
• 🙏 George's family is hoping to donate his organs.

Community Support and Fundraising

• 🤝 The Citrus County community is rallying to support the families of the deceased teens.
• 💰 Fundraising efforts are underway through the Citrus County Education Foundation and Citrus Tattoos, with proceeds going towards funeral expenses.