A heartbreaking hersheypark death occurred on July 24, 2025, when a 9-year-old child tragically lost their life at The Boardwalk, the water park section of Hersheypark. The incident has shocked families across the country and raised serious questions about safety protocols at one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic amusement destinations.
The child was reportedly enjoying a summer day with family when the situation quickly turned dire. Witnesses claim the child was seen unresponsive in one of the park’s popular water attractions. Trained lifeguards acted swiftly, pulling the child from the water and immediately performing CPR on the scene.
Despite the quick response, including efforts by Hersheypark’s first responders and nearby emergency medical services, the child was pronounced dead after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Table of Contents
Timeline of Events
- Time of Incident: Early afternoon, July 24, 2025
- Location: The Boardwalk section of Hersheypark
- Response Time: Lifeguards on duty responded within seconds
- Emergency Measures: CPR administered on-site, followed by hospital transport
- Outcome: Child was declared deceased shortly after arrival at the hospital
Hersheypark CEO Issues Statement
In response to the tragedy, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company CEO issued a solemn public statement, expressing grief and emphasizing the park’s commitment to guest safety. He noted that the park would not release personal details out of respect for the family and confirmed a full internal review was underway.
“Our hearts break for this family. We extend our deepest condolences. Our staff acted with professionalism and urgency in a deeply distressing situation.”
The park has pledged full cooperation with local authorities during the investigation.
History and Safety Measures at Hersheypark
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, launched in 2007, features over a dozen water attractions, including wave pools, lazy rivers, and slides. The area is closely monitored by certified lifeguards, and the park maintains strict safety procedures for all aquatic attractions.
This is the first known fatality within the water park area. The last recorded death at Hersheypark occurred in 1977, making this a devastating event for a park that prides itself on decades of safe operation.
Visitor Reactions
Guests present at the time of the incident described the park’s response as swift and coordinated, though many were visibly shaken. Some reported that portions of The Boardwalk were temporarily closed off as staff worked the scene and later sanitized the area.
Social media posts from attendees highlighted the sadness in the atmosphere and offered condolences to the affected family. Many also called for a transparent review of park safety procedures, especially in crowded water areas.
What Happens Next?
Hersheypark officials have confirmed the following steps:
- A full internal safety audit is in progress
- Cooperation with law enforcement and medical investigators
- Support services made available for staff and witnesses
- Additional safety checks being conducted across all water attractions
While the park remains open to guests, it’s clear that the shadow of this tragedy will linger for some time. Many families have expressed concern, and others are awaiting further updates before returning to The Boardwalk section.
Table: Summary of Incident Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | July 24, 2025 |
| Victim | 9-year-old child |
| Park Section | The Boardwalk (water attractions) |
| Immediate Response | Lifeguards and EMS |
| Hospital Transport | Yes, child died shortly after arrival |
| Public Statement | Issued by park CEO |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
| Park Status | Remains open with added reviews |
This hersheypark death has touched thousands, reminding us of the importance of vigilance even in places built for joy. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and ensuring something like this never happens again.
If you’ve visited Hersheypark recently or have thoughts about water park safety, feel free to share your comments below.