BUFFALO GROVE — A joyful holiday turned heartbreaking in the northwest suburbs as a 5-year-old boy from Plainfield tragically drowned in a private residential pool on the Fourth of July, according to authorities.
The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Copperwood Drive, where first responders were called to the scene of an unresponsive child in a backyard pool.
Bystanders performed CPR until the Buffalo Grove Fire Department arrived and transported the boy to Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. Despite the combined life-saving efforts from civilians and paramedics, the boy was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Police Investigating Circumstances
The Buffalo Grove Police Department has launched an investigation into the tragic incident. At this time, few details have been released, and officials have not yet confirmed whether the child was under supervision when he entered the pool.
The name of the boy has not been made public out of respect for the grieving family.
In a statement, police said they are actively working to determine how the drowning occurred and whether negligence or unsafe conditions played a role.
Tragedy Amid Holiday Celebrations
The Fourth of July is typically filled with celebration, but this family was met with unfathomable loss. The drowning has left the community stunned and grieving alongside the victim’s family.
Local residents have begun leaving flowers and stuffed animals near the home where the drowning occurred, expressing sorrow and support for the family.
Reminder About Pool Safety
This incident has reignited conversations around pool safety and child supervision. According to the CDC, drowning remains one of the leading causes of death for children ages 1–4 in the United States.
The Buffalo Grove Police Department urges parents and guardians to take extra precautions around water, including:
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Always supervising children near pools
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Installing proper pool barriers
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Teaching children how to swim
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Keeping rescue equipment nearby
Community Awaiting More Details
As the investigation continues, police have stated that more information will be released when appropriate. No foul play has been suspected at this time, but the investigation is ongoing.
The loss serves as a painful reminder of the hidden dangers that can accompany holiday gatherings and the importance of constant vigilance near water.
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