9‑Year‑Old Girl Dies at Hersheypark
A nine‑year‑old girl of Nepali origin tragically lost her life on July 24, 2025, after falling into distress in the wave pool at The Boardwalk water park within Hersheypark, Pennsylvania. This marks only the second fatality associated with an attraction at the park in nearly five decades—the last occurred in 1977 when a coaster employee was struck during maintenance .
Incident & Rescue Efforts
• The child was noticed in distress by lifeguards at the wave pool, who immediately initiated a rescue.
• Eyewitnesses reported seeing the girl being pulled from the water in a “limp” condition, prompting lifeguards to rapidly evacuate the pool and begin CPR. One witness described the scene as “heartbreaking” and noted the staff’s compassion .
• Over 100 certified lifeguards were on duty throughout the water park; 10 stationed at the wave pool at the time of the incident .
Medical Response & Investigation
• The child was rushed to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival .
• Authorities, including the Derry Township Police and the Dauphin County Coroner’s Office, have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the death .
Hersheypark Response
• CEO John Lawn issued a heartfelt statement, extending deep condolences to the family and emphasizing the park’s commitment to guest safety. The wave pool has been closed as a sign of respect while the rest of the park continues to operate . The park announced it will conduct a thorough internal review, cooperating fully with investigators to understand what happened and improve .
What is known is that the young girl was a cherished member of the Bhutanese community in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (which includes many of Nepali origin). She was described as a joyful and promising child whose sudden death has deeply affected her community .