ROMULUS, Mich. -- The death of an 18-month-old Romulus girl appears to be a tragic accident, police said.

Police said a relative found Alexis Bowles Tuesday afternoon in a small retention pond at the Pinewoods Village Apartments near Van Born Road.

Emergency workers came minutes after being called and the girl was rushed to Oakwood Hospital; however, it was too late, the toddler was pronounced dead on arrival.

Alexis Bowles' grandmother was watching her while her parents were at work. Alexis Bowles was Katie and Willard Bowles only child.

The grandmother told police Alexis Bowles was able to open a sliding door when she wasn't looking and somehow ended up in the pond.

So far, police told Local 4 they believe the case is simply a terrible accident but they continue to investigate to make sure neglect was not a factor in the girl’s death.

A memorial fund has been set up to help pay for the funeral. Donations can be made to the Alexis Bowles fund at any Fifth Third bank.