Tragedy Strikes as 8-Year-Old Girl Drowns in Hotel Pool: Investigation Reveals Multiple Violations
In a shocking turn of events, an 8-year-old girl lost her life after being pulled into a malfunctioning pipe at a hotel pool in northwest Houston. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has sparked an investigation into the safety protocols and maintenance practices at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel.
The victim, identified as Aliyah Lynette Jaico, was reported missing on Saturday evening after her family realized she had not been seen for some time. Her family immediately began searching the area, including the lazy river-style swimming pool where she was last seen. Unfortunately, their worst fears were confirmed when Aliyah’s lifeless body was discovered in a pipe within the pool.
The investigation into this tragic incident has shed light on a number of concerning factors. Texas EquuSearch, a search and recovery organization, revealed that security video footage showed Aliyah entering the water but never resurfacing. Subsequently, they decided to drain the pool and attach cameras to long poles to examine the pipes. What they discovered was deeply disturbing – Aliyah had been pulled 20 feet into a malfunctioning pipe that was only 16 inches in diameter.
It took authorities, including the Houston Fire Department, a grueling 13 hours to break through and retrieve Aliyah’s body from the pipe. Officials have stated that the new piping system appeared to be malfunctioning, as it was supposed to push water out but instead was pulling water in. The hotel has since closed the pool temporarily.
The incident has raised questions about the hotel’s responsibility in ensuring the safety of its guests. Reports indicate that the Houston Health Department conducted an inspection following the drowning and discovered multiple violations. One notable violation pertained to the small pool’s 32-inch channel drains on the walls. The health department noted that there was no valid document stating the purpose of these drains, the date of their installation, or their expiration date. The report also mentioned that a full inspection was conducted, and multiple violations were observed.
ABC13 reached out to DoubleTree by Hilton for comment, but the hotel declined to provide any statement. They did, however, mention that the pool was temporarily closed. It remains to be seen how the hotel will respond to the allegations and violations uncovered during the inspection.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to strict safety regulations and conducting regular maintenance checks. In a hotel setting, where families come to relax and enjoy their vacation, ensuring the safety of guests should be of utmost priority. The investigation into Aliyah’s untimely death will hopefully shed further light on any potential negligence or oversight by the hotel.
As we await more information, our hearts go out to Aliyah’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May her tragic passing serve as a wake-up call for all establishments to prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests, ensuring that no other family has to endure such a devastating loss.
