Hersheypark Adhered to Existing Safety Measures in the Incident Leading to a 9-Year-Old's Death, According to Police Statements
In a recent statement, the Derry Township Police have confirmed that the incident at Hersheypark, which resulted in the tragic death of a 9-year-old girl named Sophia Subedi, was found to be accidental. The thorough investigation, which included a review of video footage, employee statements, witnesses, first responders, and documentation from the scene, determined that no criminal activity was involved, and all safety standards were followed.
The investigation found that lifeguards at Hersheypark responded promptly to provide rescue and resuscitation during the incident. The Dauphin County Coroner ruled Subedi's cause of death as accidental freshwater drowning, and no medical complications contributed to her demise.
The police concluded their statement with a message for those involved, but did not reveal the content of the message. The focus of the public statements was to clarify that the incident was accidental and not due to negligence or wrongdoing by Hersheypark staff.
It was also established that the number of people in the wave pool with Subedi was in accordance with the pool's "designated maximum occupancy". The park was found to have properly met all safety standards, as confirmed by law enforcement.
The Derry Township Police released a new statement regarding the incident on Friday, aiming to provide clarity and allay any concerns about the safety measures in place at Hersheypark. The statement did not include any additional safety recommendations from the review.
Our thoughts are with Sophia's family and friends during this difficult time. It is crucial to remember the importance of water safety, especially when visiting amusement parks with wave pools. Always ensure that children are closely supervised and aware of the rules and regulations.
[References] [1] Derry Township Police Statement on Hersheypark Incident (2022). [Online]. Available: https://www.derrytownship.org/Page.aspx?nid=1369 [2] Hersheypark Incident: 9-year-old Girl's Death Ruled Accidental (2022). [Online]. Available: https://www.pennlive.com/news/2022/06/hersheypark-incident-9-year-old-girls-death-ruled-accidental.html
- In light of the thorough investigation, it is crucial to acknowledge the prompt response of lifeguards at Hersheypark when providing rescue and resuscitation.
- With the Derry Township Police confirming the accidental nature of the incident, it's essential to emphasize the importance of water safety, particularly when visiting amusement parks with wave pools, and to ensure all children are closely supervised and educated on pool rules.
