A 3-year-old boy visiting Disney World from New York drowned at a pool at Disney World on Tuesday after being separated from his parents, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say the child somehow became separated from his parents at the hotel. The child was reported missing and, after a search, found at the bottom of a pool at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
The Sheriff’s Office said he was pronounced dead after being transported to Celebration Hospital.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our main focus now is assisting the family during this difficult time,” Disney World said in a statement. “Any questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.”
The drowning occurred in the main pool, called the Big Blue Pool, which remained closed for the evening. The Big Blue Pool is the largest pool on WDW property.
Lifeguards and guests around the pool area were seen to be crying and were reportedly very shaken up by the incident.
Special Underwater Audio Feature
Disney pipes in a combination of upbeat surf and island music with occasional familiar character voices from “Finding Nemo,” including Marlin, Dory, Crush, Squirt, Mr. Ray, and Bruce. Though the music is constant, the voices sound only every once in a while, offering a surprise treat for those swimming through the pool.
Unfortunately, this encourages children to “float” underwater listening to the music.
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Our Magical Disney Moments 