A day meant for summer fun turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy after a 9-year-old child died at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, the water park section of Pennsylvania’s iconic theme park. The incident has shocked families, sparked widespread grief, and raised important safety conversations across the country.
What Happened?
On 24 July, 2025 emergency responders were called to The Boardwalk area of Hersheypark following reports of an unresponsive child. According to park officials and local authorities, lifeguards were quick to act, performing CPR before EMS arrived and transported the child to a nearby hospital. Sadly, the child did not survive.
The child’s identity has not been released out of respect for the family’s privacy. The exact cause of death remains under investigation, but authorities have confirmed that foul play is not suspected.
Hersheypark Responds
In an official statement, Hersheypark expressed its sorrow and support for the grieving family:
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time. The safety of our guests has always been our top priority, and we are cooperating fully with the authorities to determine what occurred.”
The Boardwalk was temporarily closed following the incident as part of the ongoing investigation and to allow staff and guests time to process the tragedy.
A Community in Mourning
As news of the incident spread, an outpouring of grief flooded social media. Parents, park visitors, and members of the Hershey community shared condolences and heartbreak over the tragic loss of such a young life.
“I can’t even imagine the pain that family is going through,” one visitor posted on Facebook. “We were at the park that day. Everything happened so fast. Just devastating.”
Local support groups and counselors have offered their services to the family and to anyone impacted by the event.
About The Boardwalk at Hersheypark
The Boardwalk is one of Hersheypark’s most popular summertime attractions, offering a variety of water rides, slides, and pools for guests of all ages. It has long held a reputation for clean, family-friendly fun and trained lifeguards stationed throughout the area.
This incident marks one of the rare and unfortunate tragedies in the park’s history.
Looking Ahead: Park Safety and Awareness
In the wake of the child’s death, discussions around water safety and child supervision in amusement parks have intensified. While Hersheypark maintains that it follows industry-standard safety protocols and employs highly trained staff, the heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder that accidents can still happen.
Safety experts are reminding families to:
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Always stay within arm’s reach of young children near water.
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Ensure children wear proper flotation devices.
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Take breaks from swimming to prevent fatigue or overheating.
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Speak with lifeguards and follow all posted safety guidelines.
Final Thoughts
No parent should ever have to leave a theme park without their child. While Hersheypark and first responders did everything they could, the loss of this young life is immeasurable.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and everyone affected by this devastating incident.
Let us honor the memory of this child by remembering the importance of safety, compassion, and community support.
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