A four-year-old girl has died in a tragic drowning incident after being left unattended in a swimming pool at a private health club in Independence Township, Michigan, while two women went to drink and eat at the club’s bar.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on Friday night at the Deer Lake Athletic Club. Police said the two women brought six children — aged 12, 10, 8, 6 and 4 — to the pool area before leaving them alone in the water for approximately 35 minutes.
Investigators said the women provided the children with flotation devices before heading to the bar area, where they ordered food and drinks. No adult was assigned to actively supervise the children during that time.
The four-year-old girl was eventually pulled from the pool by her own sister while the women were still at the bar. Deputies arrived to find the child lying on the pool deck, where CPR was being administered by two adult men and a woman.
Paramedics rushed the child to a nearby hospital, but she was later pronounced dead.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard described the incident as a preventable tragedy.
“This is a horrific and tragic death that easily could have been avoided,” Bouchard said.
“We always encourage that not only is there an adult present for any children swimming activity, but one adult is specifically tasked with watching and not just in the area. We have seen cases where children have drowned in a pool surrounded by adults.”
Authorities said the pool depth ranged between three and five feet. Pool toys and foam noodles were found at the scene, but investigators noted that no life vests were present when deputies arrived.
The identities of the two women have not yet been released. The investigation remains ongoing, and a full report will be submitted to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office for further review.
In a statement, Deer Lake Athletic Club expressed its condolences.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of a tragic incident involving a child that occurred at our facility on January 30, 2026,” the club said.
“Our hearts are broken for the child and their family. No words can adequately express the sorrow felt by our entire club community.”
The club added that emergency services were contacted immediately and staff responded in line with established safety and emergency protocols. The facility confirmed it is cooperating fully with local authorities as the investigation continues.
