A family’s trip to one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved theme parks ended in unimaginable heartbreak this summer. On July 24, 9-year-old Sophia Subedi drowned in the wave pool at Hersheypark’s Boardwalk water park. Now, an official investigation has confirmed that her death was a tragic accident, with no signs of criminal negligence or wrongdoing by park staff.
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According to a statement released by the Derry Township Police Department, the drowning occurred during the evening hours as Sophia was enjoying the wave pool. Police say the investigation into the heartbreaking incident included a full review of Hersheypark’s safety procedures, staffing, and crowd control measures at the time.
What the Investigation Revealed
Despite the devastating outcome, investigators concluded that Hersheypark’s protocols were in line with industry standards. The number of guests in the wave pool was “significantly less than its designed maximum capacity,” according to Derry Township Police. There were also ten lifeguards assigned specifically to the wave pool at the time of the incident—an important detail that speaks to the park’s level of preparedness.
Witness accounts and staff interviews confirmed that response times were swift. “Witnesses and lifeguards responded promptly, initiating rescue and resuscitation efforts within seconds of noticing Sophia’s distress,” police stated per ABC.
Unfortunately, despite the coordinated efforts of witnesses, park staff, and emergency responders, Sophia could not be revived.
A Statement from Hersheypark
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts CEO John Lawn released a public statement the same evening as the tragedy, reflecting the grief felt throughout the Hershey community. “Our hearts break for this child and the child’s family. We extend our deepest condolences for their loss,” he said. “The safety and well-being of our guests drive every decision we make.”
A message from our CEO pic.twitter.com/tiuzM3SfzA
— Hersheypark (@Hersheypark) July 25, 2025
Those sentiments were echoed again following the outcome of the investigation, as the park and community rallied around the Subedi family and the Bhutanese-American community to which they belong.
Remembering Sophia Subedi
While the official investigation focused on what happened logistically and procedurally, the human impact of the tragedy is what has lingered most powerfully. Sophia’s name has been shared widely in social media tributes, community vigils, and local news coverage. Members of the Bhutanese community in Pennsylvania, one of the largest Bhutanese-American populations in the country, have expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the family.
Derry Township Police also acknowledged the emotional toll of the incident in their statement: “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.”
What Is Hersheypark’s “Boardwalk” Water Park?
For those unfamiliar, Hersheypark isn’t just about chocolate-themed roller coasters—it also includes The Boardwalk, a water park within the park that features slides, splash zones, and the wave pool where the accident occurred. The Boardwalk opened in 2007 and is included with regular admission, making it one of the most popular summer spots for families visiting the park.
The wave pool, known as “The Shore,” simulates ocean-like waves and is staffed heavily during all hours of operation. According to Hersheypark’s safety policies, certified lifeguards undergo rigorous training and drills. Still, like with any aquatic environment, danger can arise in an instant.
The Broader Impact
While the conclusion of the investigation confirms that there were no lapses in protocol, the incident has left a deep mark on the local and extended community. Theme parks and water parks are built on the promise of carefree fun, but Sophia’s death is a stark reminder of how quickly things can go wrong—even when every safeguard is in place.
As families continue to flock to Hersheypark this summer, many are doing so with heavy hearts and renewed vigilance. Hersheypark has not announced any changes to its water safety procedures as a result of the incident but maintains that safety remains its top priority.
No parent should ever have to leave a theme park without their child. Sophia Subedi’s passing is a tragedy that cuts deep, not just because of her age or the suddenness of her death, but because it happened in a place associated with joy and laughter.
The investigation has cleared the park of fault, but the emotional weight of this loss will linger. For Sophia’s family, the Bhutanese community, and the guests and staff who were present that evening, this summer will be remembered not for roller coasters and funnel cake, but for a precious life lost too soon.
