An 11-year-old girl from Milan has died after her hair became trapped in the suction pipe of a swimming pool while on holiday with her family in Sestri Levante, Lombardy, Italy. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon at a beach resort on the Descalzo promenade.
Details of the Incident
The girl had entered a small indoor pool with shallow water to escape the extreme heat outside. Her hair became entangled in a suction nozzle, and the force dragged her underwater. Bystanders attempted to free her but could not because all her hair was trapped.
Paramedics arrived within minutes and removed her from the water, but CPR was unsuccessful. An air ambulance transported her to Gaslini Children's Hospital in Genoa, where she was placed in intensive care. She died without regaining consciousness.
Investigation and Legal Action
Police have launched an investigation, taking statements from witnesses who tried to rescue the girl. They are also examining the pool to determine how her hair became trapped. An initial report will be submitted to the prosecutor's office, which will decide whether criminal charges are warranted. The girl's mother, who stayed at the hospital, is expected to be questioned in the coming days.
Broader Context and Government Response
This tragedy is the latest in a series of pool suction accidents in Italy and other countries, often involving children. In response, Italy's Minister for Civil Protection and Maritime Policies, Nello Musumeci, co-signed a bill with Health Minister Orazio Schillaci to enforce stricter pool safety measures. Musumeci stated: "In the last three months, five minors have died in swimming pools. Strict discipline is needed, but also greater caution is needed in never leaving children alone in the water." The bill is expected to be approved by the relevant committee within the month, with an urgent schedule.
