WATCH: Parents of SC boy who died from amoeba speak

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - The parents of a South Carolina boy who died from an amoeba spoke publicly for the first time on Tuesday.

The parents of 12-year-old Jaysen Carr appeared alongside their attorney, Tyler Bailey, outside the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services headquarters in Columbia.

Carr died July 17 after contracting Naegleria fowleri in Lake Murray days earlier. Memorial services were held over the weekend.

Bailey’s law firm stated the family has also retained him to conduct an independent investigation into Carr’s death.

“Jaysen’s family has many questions about how and why their son died. They are speaking out to warn others about the potential dangers of bacteria in freshwater lakes in South Carolina. Their goal is to ensure that no other family suffers such an unthinkable tragedy,” the law firm said in a statement.

The statement also reflected on how friends and family are remembering Carr days following his funeral.

“According to his parents, Jaysen loved all sports and excelled at baseball, basketball and football. He loved cars, playing video games and hanging out with friends and family. He was known to tell ‘Dad’ jokes, enjoyed sunsets, cooking and most of all spreading joy with his big smile and even bigger heart. Jaysen was an honor student who played the flute in the Hand Middle School Honor Band,” the statement said.

DOMINION STATEMENT

Dominion Energy, the company that owns Lake Murray, also responded to Carr’s death for the first time in a statement provided to WIS on Tuesday:

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Jaysen Carr and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and other loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. According to public health agencies, naturally occurring microorganisms are present in freshwater lakes and rivers, as well as other unchlorinated water sources, but these types of tragedies are rare. We encourage everyone to follow safety guidance from public health agencies when engaging in recreational water activities.”

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter, and download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.