Girl dies in fall from ride at English theme park

An 11-year-old girl died Tuesday after falling from a rapid ride at a theme park in Central England, police in Britain reported.

The tragedy happened on the Splash Canyon attraction at the Drayton Manor theme park, north of Birmingham.

The ride has been closed while police and inspectors from the government Health and Safety Executive carry out an investigation.

Reports said the girl, who was on a school trip, fell from the ride into the water.

Police in the county of Staffordshire said the girl, thought to be from the Leicester area, was airlifted to Birmingham Children's Hospital at about 14:20 BST.

In a statement Staffordshire Police said: "Following an incident at Drayton Manor Park, we can confirm that an 11-year-old girl has died this afternoon (May 9)."

"Emergency services were called at 2.20 pm following reports the girl had fallen from a water ride at the park."

Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, of Staffordshire Police, said: "Specially-trained officers are supporting the girl's family at this difficult time. Our thoughts are very much with her family and friends following this tragic incident."

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "On arrival, crews discovered a girl with serious injuries who had been rescued from the water by park staff.

"Ambulance staff administered advanced life support before she was flown to Birmingham Children's Hospital with the doctor continuing treatment en-route. Unfortunately, shortly after arrival at hospital the girl passed away."

Police said the family have requested that their wishes are respected at this difficult time. Endit