Sophia Subedi, a 9-year-old girl who tragically drowned in a wave pool at Hersheypark last week, has been confirmed to have died from accidental drowning, according to Dauphin County Coroner’s Office.
The incident occurred on July 24 in The Shore, Hersheypark’s wave pool, located about half an hour from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The coroner ruled out any underlying health issues, confirming the death was caused by freshwater drowning.
At the time of the incident, up to 10 lifeguards certified in deep-water rescue and emergency medical procedures were on duty in the wave pool section. Although immediate rescue and medical efforts were made on site, Sophia could not be revived and was transported to Milton S. Hershey Medical Center where she passed away.
Hershey Entertainment CEO John Lawn shared his sorrow, assuring guests that the park prioritizes safety and that a full investigation is underway to prevent future tragedies.
A GoFundMe page created to support Sophia’s family has already raised a considerable amount, honoring her joyful spirit and the impact she had on her community since moving to Harrisburg in 2022.
The circumstances of this heartbreaking event remain under review by authorities.
