9-year-old dies at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania, CEO speaks out; first death since 1977

A 9-year-old has died at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark , an amusement park in Pennsylvania, which has a record of zero mishaps since 1977. The last death that took place at the amusement park was in 1977 when a 16-year-old working at the park was accidentally struck by the train of a rollercoaster while doing maintenance work, according to the New York Post, citing an archived copy of Lebanon News.

The child was taken to a nearby hospital after being rescued by the lifeguards and on-site first responders, where he was pronounced dead. The authorities have not released the identity of the child or the circumstances that led to the death.

"Tonight, a nine-year-old guest was tragically lost at The Boardwalk at Hersheypark," said John Lawn, CEO of Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company, in a statement issued on Thursday.

Lawn said, "To every family that visits Hersheypark, please know this: your safety and well-being drive every decision we make. We will thoroughly investigate this tragedy and honor the memory of this young guest by continuing our focus on ensuring the safety of our guests at Hersheypark."

"Our hearts break for this child and the child's family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss," he added.

What is the Boardwalk at Hersheypark?

Hersheypark was founded as a recreational ground for the employees of Hershey's Chocolate by Milton S. Hershey.
The Boardwalk at Hersheypark is a water park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, which is part of the larger Hersheypark complex, which includes a zoo and an amusement park. There are 16 water attractions at The Boardwalk, according to the Hersheypark website, including the World's Longest Mat Racing Slides on Whitecap Racer, and a lazy river.