By: Richard L. Smith
In a harrowing turn of events at Branch Brook Park in Newark's North Ward, county officials say a 4-year-old child was rushed to University Hospital in critical condition after a near-drowning incident.
The child, whose identity has not been released, was reported to have taken in an excessive amount of water while swimming with a group of about eight people presumed to be their family.
Authorities were alerted to the situation at approximately 6:30 p.m. when witnesses reported a person struggling in the water.
Upon arrival, the police discovered a distressing scene. Emergency responders immediately initiated CPR on the child, who was said to be in full cardiac arrest.
"Please get out of the water! You are all going to die", witnesses yelled at the group.
The young victim was swiftly transported to the hospital with the assistance of a police escort, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Eyewitnesses described the events leading up to the near drowning as a seemingly joyous occasion, with the group enjoying themselves in the water.
"I couldn't believe my eyes; they were swimming and having fun just like they were on the beach," expressed a shocked witness in an interview with RLS Media.
A video obtained by RLS Media captured the group frolicking in the lake while concerned park-goers yelled at them to get out of the water.
The video did not show the child enter the lake or emergency responder rescue efforts.
The witness suggested that there may have been a language barrier or a lack of comprehension, as the group appeared oblivious to the warnings.
The Essex County Sheriff's Department routinely patrols Branch Brook Park has regulations that explicitly prohibit swimming in the lake, and signs indicating this restriction are reportedly displayed.
Following hours of intensive medical intervention, Essex County officials provided a glimmer of hope, announcing that doctors successfully revived the child. However, no further updates on the child's condition have been made available at this time.
This unfortunate incident is a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of swimming in unauthorized areas. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant, adhere to park regulations, and prioritize water safety.
As summer unfolds, city pools are preparing to open for heat relief with hours-long swimming secured with lifeguards for safety. The City of Newark-owned and operated Rotunda Pool is near where the group entered the lake.
Essex County officials are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident to enhance safety measures and prevent similar occurrences in the future.