A British teenager tragically lost her life during a family holiday in the US.
Thirteen year old Anna Beaumont was discovered unresponsive in a swimming pool at Discovery Cove, Orlando, Florida. Despite the valiant efforts of paramedics and medical staff, the Cardiff-born girl passed away the following day.
Authorities confirmed the sad news, with a police statement reading: “We are sorry to report that on May 29, 2024, 13-year-old Anna Beaumont was pronounced deceased at the hospital. Any information about the cause and manner of her death will need to come from the Medical Examiner’s Office.”
Anna was a student at Radyr Comprehensive School in northwest Cardiff. The headteacher, Andrew Williams, expressed deep sorrow, describing Anna as “a cherished member of our school family”.
According to the Mirror he added: “The very thought of losing a child is an unimaginable journey and I know I speak on behalf of the whole school community when I say that our thoughts are with Anna’s family as they try to come to terms with their loss.
“Anna was a cherished member of our school family, and her absence will be profoundly felt by pupils, staff and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit, kindness and presence touched so many lives.”
The school has reached out to parents via email, informing them of plans to prepare staff for supporting students through this difficult time and advising them to “listen and encourage them to talk about their feelings”.
A spokesperson for the Foreign Office confirmed to the BBC: “We are in touch with the family following the death of a child in the United States, and are providing consular support during this difficult time.”
On its official site, Discovery Cove is described as an “all-inclusive day resort”, known for its attractions such as swimming with dolphins and snorkelling among vibrant aquatic life. The amusement park is affiliated to both SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando.
Responding to the tragic event, a representative from the park declared that their “staff responded to an emergency involving a guest” and contacted Orange County Fire and Rescue immediately after.
Upon arrival of the emergency services, they took over care and rushed the guest to the adjacent hospital. “When emergency personnel arrived, they took over care and transported the guest to a nearby hospital. Our thoughts are with this family, and out of respect for their privacy, we won’t be commenting further,” the representative reported to WESH.
Meanwhile, investigations into Anna’s tragic demise are still ongoing.