Summary (tl;dr)

An Arizona mother is speaking out about the harrowing ordeal of her toddler son, Vincent Fiordilino, who was pronounced dead after a near-drowning incident but was later found alive in a hospital morgue, leading to questions about medical negligence.

Essential Background

On Super Bowl Sunday, February 8, 2026, 18-month-old Vincent Fiordilino was found unresponsive in a swimming pool at his family's home in Gilbert, Arizona. He was rushed to Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, where emergency room doctor Aryan Toosi pronounced him dead. His devastated parents were sent home, believing their son had passed away.

The Full Story

Months after the incident, Vincent Fiordilino's mother, Alexus Fiordilino, is giving her first public interviews, reigniting public interest in the case. She recounted the anguish of being told her son was dead and later receiving a call that he was found alive in the hospital morgue, approximately five hours after being pronounced deceased. Vincent suffered extensive brain damage as a result of the ordeal and now requires lifelong care. The family is questioning the medical decisions made by Dr. Toosi, alleging that he dismissed concerns about Vincent still breathing and that critical blood gas test results were not completed until after the declaration of death. Gilbert Police have recommended that the Arizona Attorney General's Office review the case for potential felony child abuse charges against the doctor, and the family is preparing a lawsuit against the hospital and Dr. Toosi.

Why It Matters

This story has captivated public attention due to its extraordinary nature, raising serious concerns about medical malpractice and the reliability of emergency medical procedures. The mother's interviews are shining a light on the emotional toll and the long-term implications for Vincent and his family, who are now facing significant medical expenses and the challenges of providing lifelong care for their son. The ongoing legal proceedings and the mother's vocal advocacy highlight the importance of accountability in healthcare and patient safety.

Geographic Location

• Gilbert, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States (location of the home where the toddler was found in the pool and where he was pronounced dead at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center)
• Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States (where Vincent was airlifted for continued care and rehabilitation)