ACTON, Mass. — A 1-year-old child has died, and a grandmother is in critical condition after a water rescue in Acton on Friday, authorities announced.
According to Middlesex District Attorney Merian Ryan, first responders arrived at Nara Park around 2 p.m. after two children, a four- and 6-year-old, attracted a bystander yelling for help. The bystander then learned that two people were in the water and attempted to rescue them.
They were able to get the 1-year-old child and a 75-year-old grandmother out of the water.
The child was medflighted to Boston Hospital, where they later passed away. The grandmother was taken to a local hospital, then airlifted to a Boston hospital, where she is in critical condition.
According to Ryan, the child would have turned two next week.
Residents said the pond is the most popular swimming area in town. Authorities said in a press conference that the victims were not going for a swim and were going for a walk in the area.
Ryan said this was an “unspeakable tragedy.” She said the four- and 6-year-old children were siblings with the young child who later died.
“Save a thought for this family for the unspeakable loss of their child, the trauma suffered by the siblings.”
People living nearby were crushed to hear what happened.
“Heartbreaking. I mean, without a doubt, that is absolutely terrible news, the worst I’ve heard in a long time,” Acton resident Nathan Hutchison said.
Acton Police Chief Douglas Sterniolo said his thoughts and prayers are with the family.
“The second tragedy Acton has been struck with in a matter of weeks. Very difficult for everyone involved. I ask the community to come together and support one another.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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