News
Tragedy at Hershey Park: 9-Year-Old Dies at The Boardwalk Water Park
Table of Contents – Hershey Park
Heartbreaking Incident at Park’s Water Park Leaves Community in Mourning
In a devastating incident, a 9-year-old child lost their life at Hershey Park’s popular water attraction, The Boardwalk, on Thursday. The park confirmed the tragic event, leaving visitors and staff heartbroken.
The young guest was reportedly in distress when lifeguards immediately sprang into action, performing life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, the child was rushed to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where they were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Hershey Park CEO Expresses Deep Sorrow
John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, shared a heartfelt statement:
“Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss.”
Lawn assured the public that Park is committed to safety and will conduct a thorough internal review. The park is fully cooperating with authorities to determine the cause of the tragedy.
“To every family that visits Hershey Park, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make. 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.”
About The Boardwalk at Hershey Park
The Boardwalk is one of Hershey Park’s most beloved summer attractions, featuring 16 water-based rides and pools, including:
- Whitecap Racer: The world’s longest mat racing slides
- The Shore: A massive 378,000-gallon wave pool that reaches depths of six feet
- Multiple water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones
Located in the northern section of the 119-year-old amusement park, The Boardwalk has been a favorite destination for families seeking relief from the summer heat.
Safety Measures at Park
Hershey Park is known for its stringent safety protocols, including:
- Trained lifeguards stationed at all water attractions
- Regular safety inspections of rides and pools
- Emergency response teams on standby
Despite these precautions, this tragic incident has raised questions about water park safety. Authorities have not yet released the cause of death, and an investigation is ongoing.
Community Reactions and Support
News of the child’s death has sent shockwaves through the Hershey Park community, with social media flooded with condolences. Many visitors expressed their grief, sharing memories of their own family trips to the park.
Local officials and child safety advocates are urging parents to remain vigilant while enjoying water parks, emphasizing the importance of:
- Supervising children at all times
- Following height and depth restrictions
- Heeding lifeguard instructions
What’s Next for Hershey Park?
While the water park remains operational, Hershey Park officials have pledged to:
- Conduct a full safety review of The Boardwalk
- Enhance lifeguard training programs
- Implement additional safety measures if needed
The identity of the child has not been released, respecting the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Final Thoughts: A Tragic Reminder of Water Safety
This heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of water-related activities. As Hershey Park mourns the loss of a young guest, the focus remains on supporting the family and reinforcing safety for future visitors.
For now, the Hershey community stands together in grief, hoping for answers and healing in the wake of this tragedy.