Photo Courtesy of Middletown Schools/Instagram
Fourteen-year-old Mykiara Jones was found dead on Tuesday at Illusion Adventure Park in Middletown, Ohio. After she bounced on the inflatable obstacle, she fell into the water and never resurfaced.
According to WLWT5, Jones was not wearing a life vest at the time of the incident.
Miami Township fire officials administered CPR for almost 30 minutes, and she was taken by Careflight to a local hospital, where she later died.
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Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said, “This is a tragedy no parent should have to endure.”
“These are the calls first responders dread and have difficulty dealing with. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family,” he added.
Officials at Illusion Park Adventure said the theme park would close Wednesday as officials investigate the girl’s death.
“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 on site last evening during this tragedy,” a statement from the park reads in part.
Illusion Park Adventure is located around a lake and features an inflatable water slide, paddleboarding bay, and inflatable Wibit obstacle courses on the water.
The FAQ clearly states the following, “We provide life jackets for guests. Everyone is required to wear a life jacket while using the Wibit or Paddle Board. You are encouraged to bring your own life jacket.”
It’s not certain why the teen was not wearing the life-saving item.
It also warns, “SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK – attendants are no lifeguards.”
Authorities reported that Jones was a freshman at Middletown High School.
The Montgomery County Coroner’s Office has yet to determine the cause of death.