Tragedy at Peoria Pool: Two Children Pulled from Water, One in Critical Condition
Peoria, AZ — A tragic afternoon unfolded at a residential pool in Peoria on Monday, July 28, 2025, when emergency responders were called to the scene after two children were found unresponsive in the water. The heart-wrenching incident has left one child in critical condition and a community reeling with shock and concern.
According to the Peoria Fire-Medical Department, first responders were dispatched to the area of 91st Avenue and Olive around 2:30 p.m. following reports of a possible drowning. Upon arrival, firefighters and paramedics discovered two young children—ages not immediately released—unconscious and pulled from the pool by family members or bystanders who had attempted lifesaving measures.
CPR was already in progress when emergency crews arrived. First responders immediately took over resuscitation efforts and provided advanced life-saving care. Both children were quickly transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Authorities later confirmed that one of the children had been stabilized, while the other remains in critical condition at a local pediatric intensive care unit.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” said Battalion Chief Melissa Cardenas of the Peoria Fire-Medical Department during a brief media briefing. “Our hearts go out to the families involved. We urge all residents to remain vigilant around water and ensure children are supervised at all times.”
The circumstances leading up to the incident remain under investigation by local authorities, including the Peoria Police Department. Initial reports suggest the children may have wandered into the backyard pool unnoticed during a family gathering or playtime, but officials have not confirmed whether any adults were present at the moment the incident occurred.
Neighbors expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over the tragedy. “It just breaks your heart,” said Veronica Lewis, a nearby resident. “You see the ambulances, the panic—it’s something you hope never happens so close to home. We’re praying for that little one fighting for their life.”
Drownings are a leading cause of accidental death for young children in Arizona, where pool access is common due to the desert climate. In response to the ongoing risks, the Peoria Fire-Medical Department has routinely advocated for “layers of protection” around pools—including pool fences, locked gates, door alarms, and constant adult supervision.
As investigators work to determine the timeline and details of the incident, grief counselors and support staff have been made available to assist the family and community members affected by the tragedy. Child Protective Services have also been notified as is standard in cases involving minor injuries or near drownings.
“Even a momentary distraction can have irreversible consequences when it comes to children and water,” said Sarah Morales, a local child safety advocate. “We cannot stress enough how important it is to talk about pool safety and implement strict measures to prevent these kinds of heartbreaking situations.”
The names and ages of the children have not been released to the public in respect of the family’s privacy. Updates on the condition of the child in critical care are expected to be shared once the family is ready to speak or issue a statement.
In the meantime, the Peoria community is rallying around the family, with neighbors organizing a candlelight vigil and local churches offering prayers and support. A GoFundMe page has reportedly been launched to assist with medical expenses and other urgent needs the family may face during this painful time.
As summer continues in the Valley, local officials are pleading with all residents to treat water safety with the utmost seriousness. “It takes only seconds for a fun summer day to turn into a nightmare,” said Chief Cardenas. “Let’s honor these children by doubling down on our commitment to protect every child from water-related tragedies.”
This devastating incident serves as a somber reminder of the vigilance required to keep children safe around pools and water environments, especially during the peak of Arizona’s sweltering summer season. The entire Peoria community stands united in grief, hope, and support as they await further news and pray for healing.