5-Year-Old Girl in Serious Condition After Being Pulled into Storm Drain

A 5-year-old girl remains in critical condition after a tragic incident in Sarasota, Florida.

Reports state that the girl was swept into a storm drain following a water main break on Bahia Vista Street around 6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 24. Information from ABC 7 and Fox13 News provide details on the event.

Authorities indicated that the water main broke just east of Honore Avenue and near Sarasota Christian School, the same area where the child was reportedly playing by a culvert. The break caused a surge of water that pulled her into the drain. Emergency services ultimately located her about 100 yards downstream and transported her to Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

According to a statement from the Sarasota County Emergency Service, “Sarasota County Fire Department responded to a rescue in the 5400 block of Bahia Vista St.” The call for help came in around 6:14 p.m. on August 24.

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Sarasota County Fire Department Assistant Chief Tim Dorsey described the situation as a “high-risk” rescue operation.

Dorsey noted the significant risks involved, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Fortunately, Dorsey confirmed that the rescue team quickly identified a search area, allowing them to find the girl rapidly.

“We initiated resuscitative efforts and transported the child to a local hospital,” he stated.

“They were in the right place at the right time and responded very quickly,” Dorsey added, according to Fox13 News.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

An anonymous neighbor described the scene, recalling hearing shouting and commotion.

“I heard that one of the neighbors’ little girls was playing in the water and got swept down,” they shared.

Another neighbor revealed their daughter was a friend of the girl and expressed deep sorrow, stating, “We are devastated for the family, but really praying for a miracle.”

A neighbor shared that their doorbell camera captured the first responders’ swift arrival.

“I saw the ambulance come with a stretcher, then they all ran down the street,” he recounted.

A large hole remained in the road following the incident, though repairs were underway.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office confirmed part of Bahia Vista Street had since reopened but warned motorists to exercise caution in the area.

“Road closures remain in place near the water main break, and motorists should seek alternative routes,” they advised.

PEOPLE has reached out to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office for further information but has yet to receive a response.