Hersheypark Tragedy: 9-Year-Old Dies in The Boardwalk Wave Pool
An unidentified nine-year-old child died at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania on July 24 after lifeguards performed an emergency rescue in the park’s wave pool.
Sage Matthews here with a hard-hitting report on the tragedy unfolding at the Boardwalk water area. On that summer afternoon, visitors at Hersheypark’s water park section, known as The Boardwalk, witnessed lifeguards spring into action when a child showed signs of distress in the wave pool. CEO John Lawn of Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company confirmed the incident in a Facebook statement, praising the “immediate rescue” by staff and coordinated life-saving attempts by on-site first responders and medical personnel.
The young guest was rushed to the nearby Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where medical teams pronounced the child dead despite exhaustive resuscitation efforts. Lawn offered condolences to the family while noting that, out of respect for their privacy, no personal details would be released at this time. He also pledged full cooperation with authorities and a “thorough internal review” of safety protocols at the park.
A witness who spoke to NBC News affiliate WGAL 8 described a tense scene: “Lifeguards blew their whistles, evacuating everyone, and within moments, staff and security rushed to help. A lifeguard began CPR on a gurney with intense focus, working for several minutes.” That account underscores the swift action of trained personnel, yet it also highlights the limits of immediate lifesaving measures in a high-traffic water environment.
Hersheypark, which opened in 1906 and marks over a century of operation, boasts more than 70 rides in addition to its water park and zoo. Earlier this year in April, the park experienced another minor safety event when the Kissing Tower ride halted mid-cycle at 250 feet above ground. No injuries resulted from that incident, as riders were manually lowered in accordance with safety procedures, according to a spokesperson who spoke with ABC affiliate WHTM.
The recent fatality has prompted renewed attention on theme park safety standards, especially in aquatic attractions where rapid response is critical. Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company has emphasized existing lifeguard training, certification, and collaboration with local emergency services. Still, experts say that an internal safety audit and possible third-party review will be essential to reassure the public and families who plan future visits.
Local authorities have launched an official inquiry into the July 24 event, examining surveillance footage, lifeguard logs, and equipment maintenance records. Families who frequent Hersheypark will be watching closely as the investigation unfolds, and park officials have promised updates as they become available. Community groups and regional news outlets are urging transparency to prevent similar tragedies at other leisure venues.
And that wraps up the key facts and context behind this heart-rending incident at one of America’s oldest amusement destinations. Keep an eye out for further statements from Hershey Entertainment and detailed findings from local investigators.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! News, WGAL 8, WHTM
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
