Tragedy at Hersheypark: 9-Year-Old Child Dies in Drowning Accident at The Boardwalk Water Park
On Thursday evening, July 24, 2025, a devastating tragedy struck The Boardwalk at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where a 9-year-old child succumbed after a water-related incident. Despite lifeguards’ immediate rescue efforts and coordinated life-saving intervention from first responders and medical staff, the child could not be revived at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
This marks the first death at the park in nearly 50 years, the last being a fatal accident in 1977 involving a maintenance worker.
Swift Emergency Response
According to statements from John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, lifeguards identified the child in distress and executed a swift rescue. Their coordinated response involved on-site staff, emergency responders, and hospital personnel. Despite every effort to save the child, the outcome was tragic.
Company Statement & Investigation
Lawn expressed heartfelt sorrow, offering “deepest condolences” to the child’s family and paid tribute to the emotional impact on staff and guests. Out of respect for privacy, the child’s identity and cause of the incident were not disclosed.
He emphasized that guest safety remains the park’s highest priority, assuring the public of a thorough internal review and full cooperation with authorities.
About The Boardwalk Water Park
Located within Hersheypark, The Boardwalk features 16 water attractions, including:
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The Whitecap Racer, the world’s longest mat racing slide
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The Shore, a 378,000-gallon wave pool reaching depths of six feet
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A lazy river, water playgrounds, and more
The area operates seasonally and was scheduled to remain open through September 1.
Context & Historical Rarity
This incident stands out in Hersheypark’s legacy. Since opening in 1907, the park had maintained an exemplary safety record, with the previous fatality occurring in 1977.
While injuries have occurred over the years, life-threatening accidents are exceptionally rare.
Community and Staff Sentiment
The tragedy has deeply affected the Hersheypark community. Guests and staff are grieving, and support services are underway for team members impacted. Park leadership has requested privacy for the family and team during this period of mourning.
Ongoing Safety Commitments
The park underscored its commitment to rigorous safety protocols. Lifeguards undergo at least 24 hours of training and monthly ongoing education. Hersheypark pledges to review all policies and reinforce its dedication to guest well-being
In Memoriam
As the community mourns the loss of this young guest, Hersheypark will honor their memory through diligent reflection and renewed focus on safety. Lawn stated: “To every family who visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make.”
💬 Summary Table
| Incident | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | July 24, 2025 |
| Location | The Boardwalk, Hersheypark, Hershey, PA |
| Victim | 9‑year‑old child (identity withheld) |
| Response | Immediate lifeguard rescue, first responders, hospital transport |
| Outcome | Child pronounced dead at hospital |
| Historical Note | First park death since 1977 |
| Park Commitment | Full investigation and safety review underway |
This heartbreaking incident reminds us all of the importance of vigilance and rapid response in recreational settings. While no words can ease the pain of such a loss, the community continues to rally in mourning and remembrance.