Cordele, Georgia: Tragedy as three-year-old twins Jackson and Charlotte Smith drown in pond near their home

Warning: Distressing content

A family has been left heartbroken after their three-year-old twins drowned in a pond near their home.

Police were first called to the tragic scene at 11.01am local time in Cordele, Georgia on April 22 after a report was made of a drowning.

First responders arrived at a residence in Pine Hills Country Club, where they made every attempt to save the young girls.

“First responders from multiple agencies immediately responded to the scene involving two three-year-old children,” Cordele Police Department said in a statement.

“Upon arrival, first responders administered life-saving measures, and both children were transported to Crisp Regional Hospital, where they tragically did not survive.”

The twins were later identified as Jackson and Charlotte Smith after their father David Smith made a heartbreaking post on social media.

Resharing a post made by Rainey Family Funeral Services, Mr Smith said: “My babies went home way too soon.”

Coroner Richard Wright said the twin brother and sister were found in a pond near their home, and called the incident a “freak accident” according to WGXA.

He said no foul play is suspected, but an autopsy is underway. The twins’ obituary details what they loved about life.

“Though their time on earth was brief, their lives were filled with joy, laughter, and love that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them. “Charlee” brought light wherever she went. She loved ducks, bubbles, the ocean, and her girly boots,” the obituary reads.

“Jackson was full of energy and curiosity, with a special love for dinosaurs and playing in the mud.

“Together, they shared a special bond, riding on the golf cart, spending time with family, and enjoying rides in their big brother’s car.”

Their parents, and three brothers will “cherish their memory” as they leave behind a “legacy of love that will never fade”.

Though the coroner said the twins’ deaths were an accident, police are still investigating.

“As is standard procedure for this type of incident, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been requested and is assisting our agency with the ongoing investigation.”

Fran Brown, the twins’ grandmother posted a devastating tribute to social media.

“Yesterday morning, about 11.00 am, we lost our three-year-old twins to heaven,” she wrote.

“(A) tragic accident and our beautiful babies are with Jesus now ... I know they are there with him, but the pain and despair that we all feel right now is unimaginable … all prayers are very much need and appreciated.”

Police are not releasing specific details out of respect for the family.

“Out of respect for the family and the integrity of the investigation, specific details are not being released,” Cordele police said in a statement.

”We ask that the community keep the family and all those affected in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”