JAMES CITY COUNTY, Va. — An 8-year-old drowned at the Greensprings Vacation Resort near Williamsburg Saturday night, officials said.
A spokesperson for the James City County Police Department (JCCPD) said the drowning happened before 10 p.m., when the child was swimming at the resort's pool with family.
13News Now spoke with a Greensprings Vacation Resort guest, who said he witnessed the moments after the child drowned.
"It's been heartbreaking and burning at me," said Luis Belen of Northern Virginia, who recalled recently staying at the resort for some rest and relaxation with family.
He said he did not see pool lifeguards working, during his stay.
Belen and police officers said people nearby jumped into action to try and save the child's life until medical professionals arrived. Belen said he called 911.
"I did not witness a proactive approach, an organized proactive approach from the hotel," he said.
Days since the incident, Belen has outlying questions for resort managers and staff.
"Why don't you have a lifeguard and who's certified in CPR that is readily available to assist your members and those that come to stay at your resort?," he asked.
Seen on Google Maps & Images, signs by the pools warn "no lifeguard on duty." Still, Belen is calling on the addition of lifeguards, as a preventable measure.
"Just because the law doesn't require it doesn't mean they shouldn't be doing it. There are a lot of families, especially during this peak season that's there," said Belen. "If you could do anything to prevent, why don't you do it?"
Medics took the 8-year-old to Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center on Saturday, but hospital staff declared the child dead later in the evening, officials said in a statement.
"My heart just goes out to the family," Belen added.
The James City County Police Department said detectives are still investigating the drowning.
Greensprings Vacation Resort falls under Hilton Grand Vacations. A corporate spokesperson responded to our media inquiry with the following statement:
"It is with deep sadness that we confirm a guest drowned at Greensprings Vacation Resort. We offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones at this difficult time. The safety and well-being of our guests is our top priority, and the team at this resort continues to make every effort to ensure all practices and standards are in line with strict safety and security standards."
The company did not respond to questions about the lifeguard policy, nor CPR training and certification for staff.
Moreover, this drowning incident is prompting a larger conversation about water safety, especially in the middle of a busy summer season in our area.
Adam Kahrl, chief operating officer of YMCA of South Hampton Roads, stressed the importance of parents understanding the depth and rules at aquatic facilities they visit.
He said going to places with a lifeguard is best. If you can't go somewhere guarded, Kahrl recommended Coast Guard-approved floatation devices, like life jackets.
But in any scenario, Kahrl urged adults to always keep an eye on loved ones in the water.
"There is the misconception that when there's an aquatic incident, that people will be able to call for help or you'll see a lot of movement, they'll be waving their arms. They can slide right under the surface. They may not be able to resurface at all. They may not be able to call for help. So, that's why it's really important to be able to have as many eyes available as possible," he said.
The Y offers a variety of swim classes. Even babies as young as six months old can participate with a parent in the water. Some lessons are free and some cost; however, there are scholarships available.