On Thursday, a 9-year-old girl died in the wave pool at Hersheypark, the first guest fatality in the park’s 119-year history. The young girl, a member of the Harrisburg Bhutanese community, was pulled unconscious from the water, and later died at a hospital despite lifesaving attempts, according to Derry Township Police. Officials have not released the nature of her death.
The wave pool is part of The Boardwalk, Hersheypark’s water park, which consists of 16 different water attractions. Hersheypark officials said at the time of the incident, over 100 trained lifeguards were on duty in the Boardwalk area. Ten with the highest level of training and certification were assigned to the wave pool. Lifeguards immediately rescued the girl and began continuous, coordinated life-saving efforts in conjunction with on-site first responders, and medical personnel until emergency crews arrived to transport her, officials said. She was taken to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
Hersheypark officials confirmed there were approximately 200 people in the wave pool at the time of the incident, less than half of the pool’s maximum capacity. The pool was closed for the remainder of the day out of respect for the family and appreciation of park staff who worked to save her.
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company CEO John Lawn issued a statement Thursday night about the girl’s death:
“Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss,” the statement said. “To every family who visits Hersheypark, 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 at Hersheypark.”
Officials said Hersheypark will be conducting an internal review of the incident and will cooperate fully with authorities. Derry Township Police are assisting in a review of the child’s death.
Hersheypark is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and spans more than 121 acres. It officially opened on Memorial Day, May 30, 1906 as a recreational park for picnicking, boating, and canoeing. It was converted to one of America’s most popular amusement parks in 1971, and now features more than 70 rides, including 15 roller coasters and a zoo in addition to the water park.
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