Brandstory Organizes Miami Market News Conference Tied to Law Firm’s Case on Behalf of Drowning Victim’s Family

Brandstory Communications recently organized and executed a high-profile news conference in Miami-Dade County, bringing widespread attention to a child drowning and the urgent need for stronger safety measures at short-term rental properties.

The press event marked the first time the family of 4-year-old Kennedi Ray spoke publicly following her death at a short-term rental home. With remarkable bravery and openness, the family stood with their attorney Adam Finkel from The Haggard Law Firm, a Brandstory client, to share their story—turning personal loss into a powerful call for accountability, reform, and greater awareness to help protect other children.

The news conference generated extensive media coverage, with seven South Florida television news outlets attending, including NBC Miami, CBS Miami, WPLG Local 10, and FOX/ABC affiliates. The story was also reported by the Miami Herald, local radio stations, and quickly expanded far beyond the region.

National and international outlets—including the New York Post, The Guardian, The U.S. Sun, People Magazine, and others—amplified the family’s message, bringing global attention to the issue.

At the center of the advocacy is a critical public safety concern: drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children with autism, who are significantly more vulnerable due to tendencies such as wandering and a strong attraction to water. In Florida, more than 150 children with autism have drowned since 2021, underscoring the need for stronger prevention measures and enforcement.

During the news conference, the Ray family called for:

• Increased accountability from short-term rental platforms
• Stronger enforcement of Florida’s pool safety laws
• The removal of properties marketed as “family friendly” without adequate safety protections actively in place

Brandstory Communications led media strategy, coordination, and execution—ensuring the family’s message reached the news media with clarity and impact.

Brandstory Communications is a trusted partner to law firms handling some of the most complex and high-stakes cases across the country. The agency works alongside legal teams and their clients to thoughtfully navigate sensitive moments, elevate important voices, and bring national attention to issues that demand accountability and change.

Owned and operated by award-winning news journalists with decades of experience in newsrooms across the country, Brandstory Communications maintains strong, credible relationships within the media. This foundation is why news organizations trust Brandstory—because its team understands the newsroom, the standards of reporting, and the importance of getting the story right.

“Our role is to make sure important stories are told with accuracy, respect, and impact,” said JP Hervis of Brandstory Communications. “When families make the courageous decision to speak out, it’s our responsibility to ensure their voices are heard in a way that can truly make a difference.”

This effort reflects the agency’s commitment to elevating voices that drive meaningful conversations and real-world change. Through the Ray family’s courage and willingness to speak out, this message is already helping to raise awareness and push for safer environments for children everywhere.

About Brandstory Communications
Brandstory Communications is an award-winning public relations agency specializing in high-impact storytelling, media strategy, and advocacy-driven campaigns that connect clients with audiences and inspire action.