A four-year-old girl has died in hospital following an incident at a swimming pool in Waterworld on Monday.
Paramedics rushed to the scene on Festival Way in Hanley, Staffordshire, amid reports a child was in critical condition.
Both West Midlands Ambulance Service and water park staff treated the youngster before taking her to hospital for further care.
Police, two ambulances, a paramedic officer as well as the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were present at the scene.
But, despite best efforts of medical staff, the young girl died a shortly afterwards.
The child’s next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specially-trained officers.
Waterworld have decided to remain closed tomorrow ‘out of respect for the family’ following the incident.
Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Maskew from Staffordshire Police said: ‘Our thoughts are with the family at this terribly sad time.
‘We are now making enquiries and looking to establish the circumstances of the incident.
‘We would ask that members of the public avoid speculating in these early stages of the investigation and allow the family to grieve.’
A Waterworld spokesperson said: ‘Waterworld is deeply saddened to confirm that a fatal incident occurred at 4:15pm on Monday, August 4th, in the Lagoon area of the Aqua Park.
‘A four-years-old girl was found unconscious and treated on Poolside by our Lifeguard & Management teams on site.
‘They immediately provided CPR and called the emergency services, who arrived around 4:20pm.
‘All other visitors were asked to quietly leave the pool out of respect for the rescue operation underway, and we would like to thank them for their support and collaboration.
‘It is with great sadness that we learned of this young girl’s passing later this evening. All our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during these extremely difficult times.
‘The authorities were immediately alerted and Waterworld is working closely and openly with them to precisely understand the circumstances of this tragic accident.
‘Waterworld is in shock and has decided to remain closed tomorrow out of respect for the young girl’s family.’