A six-year-old girl tragically died at an Arizona lake after she was struck by a boat that was being driven by her mother.
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Joaquin Enriquez said in a statement, “Our hearts go out to this family dealing with this tragic situation.”
This incident took place on Lake Pleasant and came to light after two families went out on the lake around 7 am with a 911 call coming in four hours later.
The tragedy unfolded as the boat operator (the child’s mother) attempted to move forward with someone ready for wakeboarding when they ran over the little girl.
Sgt. Enriquez further elaborated that it “pretty much amputated” the girl’s leg.
The family tried to reach emergency services but were unable to connect due to poor cell phone service in that area of the lake.
Fortunately, some boaters nearby assisted them; loading their daughter onto their own boats and drove her over to Pleasant Harbor Marina where Peoria Fire Department were already present waiting for them.
Despite all their efforts, unfortunately, she did not survive.
MCSO Lake Patrol deputies are investigating a boat accident at Lake Pleasant. The preliminary information is a child was hit by a boat. The child has been transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Media stage will be the 10 lane boat ramp. PIO will be responding. pic.twitter.com/F7nXtLB3Bh
— @SgtJEnriquez (@SgtJEnriquez) July 28, 2023
Impairment did not seem to be an issue involved in this accident according to deputies who commented that all life jackets were present on board and fire extinguishers were also available among other items necessary for safety onboard.
Such tragedies often leave us speechless as lake visitor Lauren de Jong expressed perfectly saying “I honestly have no words… I wish there was something I could do better or take some of the grief from them, but the loss of a child is speechless and heartbreaking.”
Deputies have not yet identified either victim or her family however, they are doing everything possible within their power to help them deal with such an incredible loss while offering condolences during such difficult times.
