On Sunday, May 25, 2025, a three-year-old boy was airlifted to a trauma center after a near-drowning incident at Point Lookout State Park in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. The emergency occurred at approximately 2:25 p.m., prompting a rapid response from multiple agencies, including EMS and Trooper 7, a Maryland State Police medevac helicopter.
According to St. Mary’s County emergency communications, the child was pulled from the water and found unresponsive. Bystanders and first responders immediately administered CPR at the scene. Due to the child’s critical condition, Trooper 7 landed in a nearby field to transport him to Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Point Lookout State Park is a popular destination known for its scenic beaches, fishing piers, and family recreation areas. However, open water areas in public parks can pose serious risks to young children. These bodies of water often lack fencing, lifeguards, or other barriers that prevent unsupervised access, increasing the likelihood of drowning incidents.
Drownings can happen silently and in seconds, especially when small children are near natural water environments. The presence of strong currents, murky water, or sudden drop-offs make these locations hazardous if safety measures aren’t strictly followed.
While state parks are managed by government agencies, there is still a duty to ensure public safety. This includes posting visible warnings, maintaining safe access points, and responding quickly to emergencies. When those precautions are lacking, and injury results, the entity in charge may be subject to legal scrutiny.
Michael Haggard, Esq., managing attorney at Aquatic Attorneys, emphasizes that public facilities must be held to a high standard of care, especially where children are involved.
“Parents should feel safe bringing their children to parks and beaches,” Haggard said. “When a child is injured due to insufficient safeguards or supervision, the family has a right to seek answers and accountability. Our firm is committed to advocating for those families.”
Families coping with the trauma of a near-drowning face emotional and financial hardship. Medical air transport, hospitalization, and potential long-term rehabilitation can be overwhelming. In some cases, families may pursue legal claims to recover these costs and ensure that public spaces improve their safety protocols.
Key questions that may be explored in legal action include:
Was the swimming area clearly marked or supervised?
Were appropriate barriers or signage present?
Was the emergency response timely and adequate?
Legal experts in drowning cases can help uncover the full picture and determine whether negligence played a role.
If your child has suffered a drowning or near-drowning incident at a Maryland park or recreation site, it’s important to understand your legal options. Michael Haggard, Esq., and the team at Aquatic Attorneys specialize in water injury cases and are dedicated to supporting families through every step of the legal process.
Contact us at aquaticattorney.com for a free consultation. We’ll help you assess the facts, determine liability, and fight for the compensation and justice your child deserves.
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