A devastating update has emerged this week involving a hersheypark death, as a 9-year-old child died following an incident at The Boardwalk, the water park area of the iconic Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Park officials and family members are mourning the loss and searching for answers after the tragic events of Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Immediate Response to the Incident
The accident unfolded at The Boardwalk section, which houses 16 water attractions, including renowned slides and a massive wave pool. According to statements from Hershey Entertainment & Resorts CEO John Lawn, lifeguards acted the moment they spotted the child was in distress. Rapid rescue operations began, with coordinated life-saving efforts from lifeguards, on-site first responders, and medical staff.
Despite being swiftly transported to the nearby Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the child was pronounced dead at the hospital. The park immediately released a statement expressing heartfelt condolences and support for the family, while requesting privacy for those affected.
Hersheypark’s Safety Record and Precautions
Hersheypark is beloved for its commitment to family fun and safety, which makes this hersheypark death especially shocking for guests and staff. The Boardwalk, where the incident occurred, has long been a flagship attraction with rigorous lifeguard requirements. Team members reportedly undergo at least 24 hours of specialized water safety training, plus ongoing monthly education sessions.
While Hersheypark’s last fatal incident was recorded nearly fifty years ago, Thursday’s tragedy has prompted a comprehensive internal review. CEO John Lawn emphasized that guest safety is the park’s highest priority, stating:
“To every family that visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make. We will thoroughly investigate this tragedy and honor the memory of this young guest by continuing our focus on ensuring the safety of our guests at Hersheypark.”
What’s Known and What Remains Unanswered
At present, many details remain private or under investigation. The identity of the child and the specific circumstances leading to the medical emergency have not been disclosed, in accordance with the wishes of the family and ongoing inquiries by local authorities.
Key facts about the incident:
- Occurred: Thursday evening, July 24, 2025.
- Victim: 9-year-old child (identity withheld for privacy).
- Location: The Boardwalk at Hersheypark.
- Park Response: Immediate rescue by lifeguards, then medical transport.
- Current Status: Internal review underway; full cooperation with authorities promised.
- Previous Fatalities: Only one other recorded fatal incident since 1906.
Overview of The Boardwalk at Hersheypark
The Boardwalk stands out as a summer hotspot with these highlights:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Attractions | 16 water attractions |
| Signature Slide | Whitecap Racer (world’s longest mat slide) |
| Wave Pool | The Shore (378,000 gallons, 6ft deep) |
| Other Amenities | Lazy river, multiple water play zones |
Every attraction has on-duty trained lifeguards, and regular safety checks are conducted daily.
Community Reaction and Support
The hersheypark death has cast a shadow over the local and theme park communities alike. Visitors, employees, and officials are uniting behind the grieving family, sharing condolences and calling for continued efforts to prioritize guest safety. Many families visiting the park have expressed shock but have praised the staff’s professional response in a profoundly challenging moment.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Both Hersheypark and law enforcement authorities are working together to fully understand what happened and ensure all proper procedures were followed. Updates will be shared as more details become available.
Hersheypark’s leadership and community promise that safety measures will be scrutinized with utmost seriousness. As the investigation continues, the park remains committed to providing a secure environment for all guests—today and in the future.
The loss felt as a result of this hersheypark death is unimaginable, and our thoughts remain with the family and all those impacted. If you have thoughts or want to share your feelings about safety at amusement parks, please leave a comment below and join the discussion.