A Saturday night at Universal Orlando Resort’s CityWalk took an alarming turn when deputies say a child was discovered alone at a bar while her mother was elsewhere enjoying the nightlife.
The incident was first reported by Click Orlando and began at the CW Shoreline Bar, a waterside venue located along CityWalk’s lagoon. Staff working that evening noticed something unusual behind the counter–a young girl sitting by herself on a bar stool, crying and appearing upset.
Employees quickly determined that no adult seemed to be with her. Recognizing that something wasn’t right, the team contacted security to investigate the situation. Deputies soon arrived and spoke with the 12-year-old. According to investigators, she explained that she had originally been at the bar earlier that night with her mother while the two were visiting CityWalk.
Authorities say the pair had spent time walking through the complex before getting into an argument. After the disagreement, the girl remained at the bar while her mother left the area. Law enforcement began searching the busy entertainment district and soon located 33-year-old Amanda Thorpe inside the Red Coconut Club, another nightlife location within CityWalk.
Deputies say Thorpe was on the dance floor holding a drink when they approached her. Investigators also reported that she appeared intoxicated.
During questioning, Thorpe allegedly told deputies that her daughter had already returned to their hotel room. Officers informed her that this was not the case, explaining that the girl had actually been found alone at the bar where they had previously been together.
Thorpe was arrested at the scene and later transported to the Orange County Jail, where she was booked on a charge of child neglect. Authorities confirmed the girl was later released to a family member.
The situation unfolded in one of the most frequently visited areas of Universal Orlando Resort. CityWalk acts as the main hub connecting guests to the resort’s theme parks, but it’s also widely known as a destination for restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Throughout the day, the walkway is filled with families heading to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. Restaurants and entertainment venues line the path as visitors move between attractions and dining locations.
At night, the atmosphere shifts. Lights illuminate the lagoon, music echoes throughout the complex, and several venues transition into nightlife spots featuring DJs, cocktails, and dancing.
The CW Shoreline Bar is a common stop for guests wanting to enjoy a drink by the water, while the Red Coconut Club draws visitors looking for a more energetic late-night experience. Because CityWalk blends daytime tourism with a nightlife scene, employees and security teams regularly monitor activity across the property to ensure guests remain safe.
In this instance, the staff says the situation became apparent after noticing the child sitting alone and visibly upset at the bar. Their decision to notify security ultimately brought deputies to the location and led to the arrest.
CityWalk is designed to be a lively entry point to Universal Orlando Resort, welcoming guests with music, lights, and entertainment. But even in a place built for fun, employees remain alert for moments when someone might need assistance.
Have you ever witnessed something like this on vacation? Let us know in the comments down below!
