In late July, the promise of a summer day at one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic theme parks turned to heartbreak for one family and their surrounding community. Nine-year-old Sophia Subedi tragically drowned in the wave pool at Hersheypark, leading to an outpouring of grief and prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
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This week, Derry Township Police officially concluded their review of the incident, determining that the drowning was accidental. The department emphasized that no negligence or wrongdoing was found on the part of the park or its employees per ABC.
“Witnesses and lifeguards responded promptly, initiating rescue and resuscitation efforts within seconds of noticing Sophia's distress,” police said in an official statement.
The drowning occurred on the evening of July 24 at The Boardwalk, Hersheypark’s on-site water park that features a number of attractions, including lazy rivers, water slides, and the ever-popular wave pool — the site of the incident.
Hersheypark, located in the town built around the famous chocolate company’s legacy, is often seen as a hallmark of safe, family-friendly fun. Owned by Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, the 121-acre theme park includes more than 70 rides and attractions, and its water park addition, The Boardwalk, is a popular summertime escape for visitors across the Mid-Atlantic.
On the day of the incident, CEO John Lawn offered a statement reinforcing the company’s commitment to safety:
“Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss,” said Lawn. “The safety and well-being of our guests drive every decision we make.”
According to Hersheypark, ten lifeguards were on duty at the wave pool at the time of the incident — a staffing level that investigators confirmed was appropriate for the park’s safety protocols. The police investigation also noted that the number of guests in the wave pool was “significantly less than its designed maximum capacity.”
A message from our CEO pic.twitter.com/tiuzM3SfzA
— Hersheypark (@Hersheypark) July 25, 2025
Sophia, a member of Pennsylvania’s Bhutanese-Nepali community, was quickly noticed to be in distress. Lifeguards sprang into action, pulling her from the water and beginning emergency procedures within seconds. Paramedics transported her to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, where despite continued lifesaving efforts, she could not be revived.
The police commended the quick work of Hersheypark staff, witnesses, and first responders, noting that everyone involved acted swiftly and in accordance with protocol. In their final report, the department also extended condolences:
“The Derry Township Police Department, along with the witnesses, Hersheypark staff, and first responders who attempted to save Sophia, extend their sincere condolences to her family and friends, as well as the Bhutanese community, during this difficult time.”
This tragedy has had a ripple effect across multiple communities. Hersheypark visitors left stunned by the unfolding events have expressed sympathy for Sophia’s family, while members of the Bhutanese-Nepali community — a group that has seen significant resettlement in the U.S. over the past two decades — mourn the loss of a child who was described as bright, joyful, and full of promise.
The incident has also sparked online discussion about water safety at large amusement parks. While lifeguards are highly trained and emergency protocols are frequently reviewed, incidents like this highlight the unpredictable nature of water environments, particularly those involving young children. Experts note that wave pools — while regulated — can pose unexpected risks, even in well-supervised settings.
Hersheypark has not announced any operational changes following the investigation, though the company is known for reassessing safety procedures annually and after any major incident. The Boardwalk, where the drowning occurred, reopened shortly after the event but remained under close watch in the days that followed.
For guests, the tragedy has served as a reminder of the fragile balance between joy and caution — especially in summer settings where excitement can sometimes mask danger. For Sophia’s family, however, the grief is immeasurable.
Though the police report offers closure from a procedural standpoint, the emotional impact of the event will not soon fade. Sophia’s name now joins a solemn list of lives lost far too soon, even as the community rallies around her memory.
