A 9-year-old child has died following a tragic incident at the water park section of Hersheypark in Pennsylvania, officials confirmed.
In a statement released on July 24, John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company, said the park’s lifeguard team “recognized that a child was in distress” and “performed an immediate rescue, followed by continuous, coordinated life-saving efforts by on-site first responders and medical personnel.”
Lawn said the child was transported “without delay” to a local hospital where, despite all efforts, they died from their injuries.
“Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family,” Lawn said in the statement. “We extend our deepest condolences for their loss. Out of respect for their privacy, we will not release any personal details at this time.”
He emphasized that guest safety is the company’s “highest priority” and added that Hersheypark will conduct a “thorough internal review” and fully corporate with authorities.
“To everyone family who visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make,” Lawn said. “We will thoroughly investigate this tragedy and honor the memory of this young guest by continuing our focus on ensuring the safety of our guests at Hersheypark.”
Hersheypark, founded in 1906 and famously chocolate-themed, spans 121 acres and offers more than 70 rides, including 15 roller coasters. Located within the amusement park, the water park, opened in 2007, boasts a 378,000-gallon wave pool, the world’s longest mat racing slide, and a winding lazy river.
The National Drowning Prevention Alliance reports that drowning is the leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 4, with an average of 4,012 unintentional drowning deaths each year. According to the Alliance, 88% of these drownings occur when at least one adult is present.
