The Bhutanese community in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is mourning the tragic loss of a nine-year-old girl who died at Hersheypark's water park last Thursday (July 24). The incident occurred at the wave pool within The Boardwalk, prompting an immediate response from lifeguards and first responders, but sadly, the child did not survive.
According to John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, the park's lifeguard team performed a rescue and life-saving efforts as soon as the child was recognized to be in distress. Hersheypark had over 100 trained lifeguards on duty, including 10 specifically dedicated to the wave pool, all certified in deep-water lifeguarding and emergency response.
The wave pool was temporarily closed out of respect for the family and to acknowledge the efforts of the team members involved. Hersheypark has promised a thorough internal review and is cooperating with authorities, including the Derry Township Police Department and the Dauphin County Coroner's Office, to investigate the tragedy.
The community and park officials are united in their grief and determination to ensure the safety of all guests at Hersheypark. Anyone who needs to talk can call 800-273-8255 no matter the time of day.