Tragic Incident at Hersheypark’s Water Park Claims the Life of 9-Year-Old

A heartbreaking incident unfolded at Hersheypark’s water park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, when a 9-year-old child tragically lost their life on Thursday, July 25, 2025. The child was visiting The Boardwalk, the park’s themed water attraction, when the incident occurred.

Lifeguards Act Quickly to Assist

According to Hershey Entertainment & Resorts CEO John Lawn, the lifeguard team responded immediately upon noticing the child was in distress. They performed an initial rescue and continued life-saving efforts alongside on-site first responders and medical personnel. Despite these efforts, the child was transported to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where they were sadly pronounced dead.

Lawn expressed the company’s sorrow, stating, “Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss.” The identity of the child has not been released, and the company has asked for privacy for the family during this difficult time.

The Boardwalk at Hersheypark

The Boardwalk features 16 different water attractions, including the “Whitecap Racer,” a mat racing water slide, and “The Shore,” a massive wave pool that holds 378,000 gallons of water. Although the park has not disclosed the exact location where the incident occurred, these attractions are among the most popular at the water park.

Lawn emphasized that guest safety remains a top priority for the park. “To every family who visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make,” he said.

Ongoing Investigation and Review

Hersheypark has promised to conduct an internal review of the incident and is fully cooperating with authorities. The investigation into the cause of the child’s death is ongoing, and updates will be provided as appropriate.

As the community grieves, Lawn has requested privacy for the family and the park’s team members, who are deeply affected by the loss. The company has vowed to continue focusing on guest safety as part of their response to this tragedy.

What steps do you think amusement parks should take to ensure the safety of guests in water attractions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

More…

• https://www.foxnews.com/us/9-year-old-dies-hersheyparks-boardwalk-water-park-our-deepest-condolences
• https://abcnews.go.com/US/9-year-dies-hersheyparks-water-park-pennsylvania/story?id=124060900
• https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/hersheypark-boardwalk-child-death-hershey-pennsylvania/4242160