14-year-old drowns in Ohio waterpark

A 14-year-old girl died Tuesday night after being lifted out of the water at an Ohio theme park, officials said.

Police were called to the Land of Illusion Water Adventure Park in Middletown after the teenager was underwater and failed to surface, the Butler County Sheriff’s Office said.

The sheriff’s office said in a press release that the girl sank around 5 p.m. and was not located until half an hour later.

The victim has been identified by authorities as Mykiara Jones.

Mykiara was airlifted to Dayton Children’s Hospital, where she later died, police and other officials said.

“This is a tragedy that no parent should have to endure,” said Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones. said in a press release. “These are the calls that first responders dread and find it difficult to handle. Our hearts and prayers are with the family.”

An investigation is underway.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the owners of Land of Illusion said they had closed the water park and cooperated with investigators to determine what had happened.

“We ask you to join us in sending thoughts and prayers and our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our guests, as well as to the team members and guests who were on hand last night during of this tragedy, ”said the owners.

The Middletown School District issued a statement alerting the community to Mykiara’s death.

Superintendent Marlon Styles said Mykiara was going to be a freshman at Middletown High School in the fall and the teenager’s mother was working in the school system.

“We’re going to put our arms around her during this extremely difficult time,” Styles said of Mykiara’s mother.

The school provided information on counseling services to students, faculty and other members.

“We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to the family, friends and teachers of Mykiara. We pray that the family will find peace and comfort during this difficult time,” Styles said.