A day at the water turned tragic in Pinson on Sunday when two children were pronounced dead after a drowning at Turkey Creek, according to local television coverage. The kids were pulled from the creek following an apparent swimming incident and later died at a hospital, leaving visitors and nearby residents who rushed in to help stunned by what unfolded.
Atlanta News First reports that authorities announced the children's deaths Sunday after emergency crews responded to the Turkey Creek area. According to the station's video report, medical personnel took the children to a hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.
Earlier reporting from WVTM 13 stated the children were swept away while swimming at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson, Alabama. Witnesses pulled them from the water and began CPR before they were taken in critical condition to a Birmingham hospital. That coverage noted that Center Point Fire and Rescue, Palmerdale Fire and Rescue, Glenwood Fire and Rescue and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office all responded to the scene.
Officials' response and investigation
According to Atlanta News First, officials have not yet released the children's names or ages, and investigators remained at the scene working to piece together what happened. The station reports that authorities have asked anyone who may have information about the incident to contact local law enforcement.
Why creeks can be deadly
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1 through 4 and remains a top cause for older kids as well, a stark reminder of how quickly a routine swim can turn into an emergency. Creeks can be especially hazardous, with shifting currents, hidden debris under the surface and cold-water shock that can overwhelm even strong swimmers, particularly after recent rains.
How families can reduce risk
The American Red Cross recommends using multiple layers of protection around the water. That includes close, arm's-length supervision for young children, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in open water, formal swim lessons and CPR training for caregivers. The organization also urges people to avoid alcohol while swimming, to always swim with a buddy and to choose designated, lifeguarded areas whenever possible.
Local outlets are expected to update their coverage as officials release more details. We will post updates when additional information becomes available.
