Tragedy at Hersheypark: How did a 9-year-old child die at one of America's safest theme parks?
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark
on Thursday, July 24, says John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts.
Lawn adds, while in the water, the child suddenly became "in distress." As soon as the lifeguards saw the child was in trouble, they quickly jumped into the water and saved them. After that, lifeguards, first helpers, and medical staff all worked together to try to save the child's life, says People.
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The child was rushed to the Milton S Hershey Medical center, which was nearby, but couldn't make it. The name and identity of the child has been kept under wraps, and no official cause of death has been revealed.
Park shares emotional message after child's death
CEO John Lawn said, 'Our hearts break for this child and the child's family.' He also shared deep condolences on behalf of the park. Out of respect for the family's privacy, the park said they will not share any personal details at this time, according to the report by People.
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The CEO also did not mention the specific ride or attraction where the child was found in distress. According to park information, The Boardwalk water area includes 16 water rides, like a 378,000-gallon wave pool, slides, a lazy river, and Whitecap Racer, known as the longest mat racing slide in the world.
Hersheypark promises full investigation and safety review
This is one of the very few fatal incidents in Hersheypark's history — the last one happened in 1977, when a maintenance worker died. In his statement, CEO Lawn said safety is the company's highest priority, and they will now conduct a full internal review of the incident, as stated by People.
The park will also fully cooperate with authorities during the investigation. He said the team at Hersheypark is also grieving, and they request privacy for the staff members who are deeply affected.
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The park promised to give updates as needed and to support everyone involved in the tragedy. John Lawn ended the statement by saying: 'To every family who visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make.'
He said they will investigate this tragedy fully and honor the young guest's memory by continuing their commitment to guest safety at Hersheypark, according to the report by People.
FAQs
Q1. What happened to the 9-year-old at Hersheypark?
A 9-year-old child died after becoming distressed in the water at The Boardwalk in Hersheypark on July 24, 2025.
Q2. Has anyone died at Hersheypark before?
Yes, but it's very rare — the last reported death before this was in 1977 involving a maintenance worker.
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