A girl has died after being pulled from the water Tuesday evening at the Land of Illusion’s Aqua Adventures Waterpark, the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office confirmed early Wednesday morning, according to the Journal-News.
The coroner’s office identified the girl as 14-year-old Mykiara Jones.
The first of several calls about a possible drowning was made at 5:10 p.m. to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office dispatch center, a dispatcher said.
The caller said a 14-year-old girl went under water but did not resurface, and she was not wearing a life jacket.
Madison Township and Middletown fire departments responded to the park, 8762 Thomas Road in Madison Twp.
Middletown medics were performing rescue breathing before she was taken by CareFlight to Dayton Children’s Hospital.
A Madison Township official said he did not know how long the teen had been in the water.
In a statement on the company's website, Land of Illusion announced they would remain closed on Wednesday as the investigation continues.
"Land of Illusion is saddened to learn of the passing of a young girl at our Aqua Adventure Park yesterday (July 20). Out of respect for her and her family, and for our employees who are also dealing with this tragedy, Land of Illusion Aqua Adventure Park will be closed today," the company wrote.
"We are fully supporting state and local officials as they investigate the incident. We would like to thank first responders and all those who participated in the rescue effort. We ask that you join us in sending thoughts and prayers and our deepest condolences to our guest’s family and friends, as well as to the team members and guests who were onsite last evening during this tragedy."
Middletown City Schools released a statement Wednesday saying the district plans to "wrap their arms" around Jones' mother, who works for the district.
"It is with great sadness that I write this letter to you. One of our students died yesterday after a possible drowning incident at the Land of Illusion Water Park. Mykiara Jones was a rising freshman at Middletown High School and we mourn for her family and friends. Mykiara’s mother works in our schools, so we will be wrapping our arms around her during this extremely difficult time," the district said.
"Our district has experienced a lot of loss this past year and I want you to know we are here to help you in any way we can. Our Student Services Department is working with Access Counseling to have grief counselors available to support students, staff and parents as needed."
