A summer day on the water ended in tragedy Tuesday night at Campfire Cove Aqua Park, an inflatable water attraction at the Do Nothin (DN) Campground just outside Balsam Lake. A 9-year-old child suffered a life-threatening incident on the water, and witnesses, along with on-site first responders, immediately began life-saving measures while an air ambulance was called in. Despite those efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and emergency response
Emergency crews were called to the park around 8:15 p.m. for a report of a child in distress. First responders and bystanders worked together on resuscitation attempts while EMS took over care on arrival. An air ambulance was dispatched, but the child was later pronounced dead at the scene, authorities say. According to KSTP, officials are not releasing additional details while next-of-kin are notified and the investigation continues.
Agencies on scene
The Polk County Sheriff's Office says the Polk County Medical Examiner is assisting with the death investigation, and local fire and EMS agencies also responded. DrydenWire reports Apple River Fire and Northwestern Municipal EMS assisted at the scene and that Life Link Air Ambulance was dispatched, citing a sheriff's office release.
Location and park details
Campfire Cove Aqua Park is the inflatable aquapark feature at the DN (Do Nothin) Campground on the Apple River. The campground’s site describes the on-site aquapark, and state tourism listings place DN Campground at 956 165th Ave near Balsam Lake, WI. Those public listings show the campground markets beach access and inflatable water features that draw families and day visitors during the summer season.
Drowning risks for children
Drowning is a leading cause of death for young children in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 1–4 and the second leading cause for ages 5–14. Public-health guidance stresses multiple layers of protection, including close adult supervision, properly fitted life jackets on open water, barriers and swim lessons, to reduce risk around natural water and temporary inflatable parks. See prevention resources from the CDC.
What's next
Authorities have not released the child's name and say the investigation is ongoing. Local outlets report they have reached out to Do Nothin Campground for comment and are awaiting a response. The Polk County Sheriff's Office and the Polk County Medical Examiner will determine the official cause and manner of death and may release further information when appropriate. This story will be updated as officials provide new details.
