Teen pulled from Framingham pond dies; city acknowledges no lifeguards were on duty
A teenage boy who was pulled from a pond Sunday in Framingham, Massachusetts has died. The city said no lifeguards were on duty at the time of the drowning incident.
It happened shortly after 3 p.m. at Learned Park & Beach. The mayor's office said first responders arrived on scene after the 16-year-old boy went missing. A diver went into the water and 10 minutes later, the swimmer was found about 30 yards from the shore, according to firefighters.
The mayor's office said the boy was not breathing when he was brought out of the water. He received medical treatment on shore and was rushed to Metrowest Medical Center.
Police on Monday said the boy was pronounced dead at a Boston area hospital. His identity has not been released.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time," acting police chief Sean Riley said in a statement. "Our officers and first responders did everything they could, and our thoughts remain with everyone impacted by this tragedy."
In a statement, Framingham Parks & Recreation said they've been dealing with a shortage of lifeguards this summer. Four bathhouse attendants were at the beach Sunday and the two who were certified lifeguards were able to help first responders rescue the teen.
The department said because no lifeguards were on duty, signs were posted at the beach saying "Unguarded waterfront" and "No lifeguard on duty."
Learned Beach is in Framingham and is about 21 miles west of Boston.
Just last Sunday, a 4-year-old drowned in a backyard pool in Brockton. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1 to 4 years old in the United States.
