On May 24, 2025, a frightening water-related emergency unfolded in Eagle Mountain, Utah, when a young boy was found unresponsive in a backyard pool. The incident occurred during a gathering at a residence near Pony Express Parkway. According to reports, the child had to be revived at the scene before being transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Though the initial outlook was grim, the boy’s family has since shared that he is making progress in his recovery. In a public statement, they expressed immense gratitude to the bystanders who provided CPR and to the first responders whose quick actions helped stabilize him. Despite encouraging signs, the family has acknowledged that he faces a long road ahead in terms of rehabilitation and healing.
This case is a sobering reminder of how quickly a joyful day can turn tragic. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under the age of five, and near-drowning events often leave survivors with long-term consequences, including neurological damage or physical disabilities. Even a brief submersion can deprive the brain of oxygen, creating life-altering outcomes.
Many of these incidents take place in private pools, where safety measures are often left to the discretion of the homeowner. When gatherings involve multiple children and distractions, it only takes seconds for a child to slip beneath the surface unnoticed.
In Utah and across the U.S., property owners are responsible for ensuring that swimming pools are reasonably safe for guests—especially children. Failing to implement basic safeguards like self-latching gates, pool alarms, or adult supervision can amount to negligence under premises liability laws.
Michael Haggard, Esq., managing attorney at Aquatic Attorneys, has represented numerous families in water-related injury and drowning cases in Utah. He emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and legal recourse in the wake of such tragedies.
“We often hear ‘it happened so fast,’ and unfortunately, that’s the nature of these incidents. But many could have been prevented with the right precautions in place,” Haggard said. “When a child suffers because of another party’s negligence, the family deserves not only answers but also accountability. Our firm is committed to helping these families find justice and the resources they need to move forward.”
For families dealing with the trauma of a near-drowning, legal action may not be top of mind—but it can play a critical role in recovery. Civil claims can help cover the cost of emergency treatment, rehabilitation, long-term care, and emotional distress. It also creates an avenue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify whether safety standards were violated.
If a property owner or caregiver failed to provide reasonable protection, they may be held liable for damages. An experienced drowning injury lawyer can help families navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and advocate for full compensation.
If your child has experienced a drowning or near-drowning accident in Utah, don’t wait to get help. Our team at Aquatic Attorneys is here to listen, support, and take legal action on your behalf. With deep experience in complex pool accident cases, we are committed to uncovering the truth and securing justice for affected families.
Contact Michael Haggard, Esq. at aquaticattorney.com for a free consultation today. Let us guide you through your legal options and help you take the first step toward healing and accountability.
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