Hersheypark Fatal: 9-Year-Old Dies After Water Rescue From Boardwalk

Officials announced Thursday, July 24, that a 9-year-old child had died after being rescued from the sea at Hersheypark’s The Boardwalk.

Hersheypark’s Wildcat’s Revenge.

When lifeguards saw the boy in peril, they immediately began to rescue him. The lifeguards, on-scene first responders, and medical staff all worked together to save lives, according to park officials. According to a statement from Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, the child was taken right away to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where they eventually passed away in spite of everyone’s best efforts.

The event happened on the evening of July 24 and is currently being reviewed jointly by Hersheypark and the Dauphin County Coroner’s Office with assistance from the Derry Township Police Department. The authorities are still gathering information and looking into how the tragedy happened.

In a statement released Friday morning, July 25, police said, “Our hearts and thoughts are with the family and friends of this young life, lost too soon.”

No identifying information has been made public out of consideration for the privacy of the family.

Our top focus has always been visitor safety, and we’re committed to conducting a thorough internal review and offering support to the family, employees, and everyone else impacted by the child’s passing, Hersheypark stated.

CEO John Lawn urged all families who visit Hersheypark to understand that every choice we make is based on their safety and wellbeing.