Created: 11/6/2009 5:49:12 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- A family friend of the toddler who apparently drowned in a retention pond at an apartment complex said his parents are completely devastated.
Nikkita Santiago tells First Coast News Reporter Monica Landeros the baby is Nathan Cook, and he was almost 2-years old.
Santiago spoke on behalf of Janet Ramos, the child's mother.
Santiago said little Nathan had big blue eyes and a soft smile.
"He was always up and going, wanting to play. (He was a) funny little one, always curious," said Santiago, holding back tears.
A memorial with Nathan's picture, flowers and toys sat at the spot where neighbors tried in vain to give him CPR.
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said Nathan was found lifeless in a retention pond at Woodhollow Apartments on Hodges Boulevard near the Intracoastal Waterway.
CLICK HERE to hear how a neighbor helped the child's mother pull the boy's body out of the pond.
"He's just a baby; that's all that keeps running through my mind. He's just a baby. He didn't deserve this. It's a devastating tragedy," said Santiago.
Santiago said Ramos and the child's father, Robert Cook, are devastated. She said Cook is on his way to Jacksonville from Chicago to bury his son.
Santiago said Ramos is not sure exactly what happened at the retention pond, but said it was a tragic mistake that will be regretted forever.
"Keep an eye on your children no matter what. Mistakes happen. They may not be your fault but it happens. We always got to keep an eye out (for our children.) Always make sure they are loved. If (a tragedy) happens to anyone, just make sure that person knows how much support you have for them," said Santiago.
Attorney Rick Ramsey represents Woodhollow Apartments. He tells First Coast News managers from the complex are cooperating with police.
Ramsey said the property was bought by the current owners about 25 years ago. He said the pond was already built and did not have a fence. Ramsey said as far as he knows, the retention pond is currently up to city code.
Jacksonville city officials tell First Coast News a fence is only needed around a retention pond if the slope is too steep.
On Thursday evening, police said the the child was wandering near the pond by himself. At this point, they have not said if the mother faces any charges.
Ramsey said a collection to help pay for Nathan's funeral will be set up soon at Wachovia Bank.
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