A TODDLER drowned after sneaking out the house and into a garden swimming pool set up for his big sister's birthday.
Two-year-old Francesco Pioppi tumbled into the 3.2ft depth of water while his parents were distracted.
Blonde-haired Francesco apparently crawled out to try and retrieve a toy from the water, in the hamlet of Sant'Antonio, in Modena Province, Italy.
His body was discovered by his distraught father, Patrik Pioppi – who tried to revive him.
A neighbour who is a doctor also fought to save the boy – but tiny Francesco was declared dead shortly after being airlifted to Modena Polyclinic hospital.
The tragic incident, at around 10pm on July 3, took place while the toddler's mum was at home and his dad was distracted talking to their gardener.
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A neighbour described hearing screams as the toddler plunged into the pool – which had been set up for a birthday party for the boy's sister, two days before he died.
Patrik said: "All this must have happened while I was talking to the gardener.
"Once I got home, I headed towards the pool because I wanted to check the water recirculation pump.
"I saw my son floating. I dived to retrieve him but it was too late."
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A neighbour revealed: "I heard the screams and then the arrival of the ambulance.
"The tot was looking for his dad to get his warm milk before sleeping, and he was out with the gardener."
Dad Patrik took to social media to pay tribute to his son saying: "I want to remember you forever like this.
"Smiling, happy and with an immense desire to live.
"You hugged me and held me tightly telling me that you loved me so much. I would have given and done everything for you my love.
"Losing you has completely destroyed me. I miss you so much."
Locals in the small hamlet of just 500 people have reportedly been leaving flowers at the gates to the family's home.
Italian police are currently investigating the incident.
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