An 11-year-old boy in China has died after allegedly being trapped by the powerful suction of an uncovered swimming pool drain during a swimming session, prompting police to open a criminal investigation into the incident.
The tragedy occurred on 6 July at the Cheetah Camp Sports Centre in Gaobeidian, Hebei Province.
According to Chinese media reports, the Year Five pupil, identified by the pseudonym Wang Mu, was swimming in the shallow end of the pool when his left arm and shoulder became trapped inside a side-wall drainage outlet.
The drain, which measured about 15 centimetres in diameter and was located approximately 80 centimetres below the water’s surface, allegedly had no protective cover installed.
Unable to free himself, the boy’s head remained submerged as he struggled underwater for an estimated three to five minutes before he drowned.
His family claimed there was only one female staff member present at the time, who was allegedly looking down at her mobile phone instead of monitoring swimmers. They also alleged that no qualified lifeguard was on duty when the incident happened.
Following the tragedy, local police, emergency management authorities and education officials launched an investigation.
Police officially opened a criminal case on 14 July under the offence of causing a major accident through negligence.
Experts have warned that swimming pool drains can generate extremely powerful suction if protective grilles are missing or damaged.
According to safety experts, the suction force from an exposed drain in a circulation pool can reach 23 kilograms per square centimetre, making it nearly impossible for a person to escape without assistance once part of their body becomes trapped.
Authorities have since reminded swimming pool operators that drain covers and protective devices are critical safety features and should be regularly inspected to prevent similar tragedies.
