Tragedy at Hersheypark: On July 24, 2025, a devastating incident occurred at Hersheypark’s water park, The Boardwalk, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where a 9-year-old child tragically lost their life. This heartbreaking event has left the community and visitors in shock, raising questions about safety at one of America’s most beloved amusement parks. As a news portal, we aim to provide a clear, compassionate overview of this tragedy, its implications, and what it means for families visiting Hersheypark.
Table of Contents
The Incident at The Boardwalk
The tragedy unfolded on Thursday evening when lifeguards at The Boardwalk noticed a 9-year-old child in distress. According to Hershey Entertainment & Resorts CEO John Lawn, the lifeguard team acted swiftly, performing an immediate rescue followed by coordinated life-saving efforts. Despite the tireless work of lifeguards, on-site first responders, and medical personnel, the child was transported to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where they sadly did not survive. The specific attraction involved and the cause of death have not been disclosed out of respect for the family’s privacy.
Hersheypark’s Response and Commitment to Safety
In the wake of this tragedy, Hersheypark’s CEO expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss.” The park has committed to conducting a thorough internal review and cooperating fully with authorities to investigate the incident. Lawn emphasized that guest safety is the park’s highest priority, reassuring families that every decision at Hersheypark is made with their well-being in mind. This incident, one of only a few fatal events in the park’s 119-year history, has prompted renewed focus on safety protocols.
A Rare Tragedy in Hersheypark’s History
Hersheypark, founded in 1906, is a cherished destination known for its thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and The Boardwalk water park, which opened in 2007. With 16 water attractions, including a 378,000-gallon wave pool and the Whitecap Racer, The Boardwalk draws thousands of visitors each summer. Fatal incidents at the park are exceedingly rare. According to reports, the last death associated with an attraction occurred in 1977, when a maintenance worker was fatally struck by a roller coaster. This recent loss marks only the second death tied to a park attraction, underscoring the rarity of such events.
Community and Visitor Reactions
The news of the child’s death has reverberated through the Hershey community and beyond. Visitors who flock to Hersheypark for joyful family outings are grappling with the sobering reminder of the risks inherent in amusement parks, even those with strong safety records. Social media posts reflect a mix of grief and concern, with many expressing condolences for the family and others questioning how such a tragedy could occur. Hersheypark has asked for privacy for the family and its team members, who are deeply affected by the loss, as they navigate this difficult time.
What This Means for Amusement Park Safety
This tragic event raises broader questions about amusement park safety. While Hersheypark has a robust safety record, with lifeguards required to complete a 24-hour training course and maintain ongoing education, accidents can still happen. Past incidents at Hersheypark, such as raft overturns or minor injuries, have led to safety improvements like narrowing waterways or adding restraints. The park’s commitment to a thorough investigation suggests that any findings will likely lead to enhanced safety measures to prevent future tragedies. For families, this serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and follow park safety guidelines.
In closing, the loss of a young life at Hersheypark is a profound tragedy that touches us all. As the investigation unfolds, we join the community in mourning and hope for answers that will honor the memory of the child by ensuring safer experiences for all visitors. Our thoughts remain with the family during this unimaginable time.