A day out at a water park turned tragic after a 14-year-old girl drowned and died.
Mykiara Jones was a freshman at Middletown High School. She visited the water park on July 20. She was getting off a ride when she reportedly fell into the water.
It wasn't until about half an hour later that lifeguards were able to locate her and pull her out, per ABC 11. First responders had Mykiara airlifted to Dayton Children's Hospital. She later died there.
"This is a tragedy no parent should have to endure," Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said in a statement.
"These are the calls first responders dread and have difficulty dealing with. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Mykiara wasn't wearing a life vest when she fell into the water from a nearby jumping attraction. The sheriff's office is now looking into possible regulation violations at the water park.
"There are a wide range of complaints insinuating the Aqua Adventures Park has violated various regulations. The complaints allege the park does not have certified life guards, life vest rules are not enforced and no rescue equipment is readily available, among others," a statement on the issue reads.
"This investigation may extend beyond my office and I plan on contacting OSHA and The Attorney General's Office for assistance," Sheriff Jones said.
"After this tragedy, the number of complaints has been staggering and I feel it's very important to obtain all relevant facts to ensure everything is being done according to regulations and safety guidelines."
Land of Illusion Adventure Park was closed on July 21 and put out a statement on social media regarding the incident.
"Land of Illusion is saddened to learn of the passing of a young girl at our Aqua Adventure Park yesterday (July 20). Out of respect for her and her family, and for our employees who are also dealing with this tragedy, Land of Illusion Aqua Adventure Park will be closed today," the statement begins.
"We are fully supporting state and local officials as they investigate the incident. We would like to thank first responders and all those who participated in the rescue effort," it continued.
"We ask that you join us in sending thoughts and prayers and our deepest condolences to our guest’s family and friends, as well as to the team members and guests who were onsite last evening during this tragedy."
Those who knew Mykiara remember her as a bright young girl with a promising future ahead of her.
"She radiated joy every single day of her life," Middletown High School science teacher Lori Baker told WLWT 5.
"She kind of lived by the motto to always be your best self, and I think she inspired others around her to do the same."
"Her bubbly personality was infectious. She wanted to encourage everyone to be the best person they can be," said Mykiara's math teacher, Jennifer King.
"We do MAP testing, and she actually had the highest score in the winter that I have ever had of a student, and when we took it in the spring, she just wanted to do better. She just pushed herself so hard and did an amazing job."
