9-Year-Old's Tragic Death at Hersheypark Honored with Deep Love and Sorrow

A Tragic Loss and a Community in Grief

On Wednesday, July 30, friends and family gathered to honor the memory of Sophia Subedi, a 9-year-old girl who tragically drowned at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania. The funeral was held as a way for loved ones to pay their final respects to a young girl whose life was cut short.

The Dauphin County Coroner’s Office confirmed that an autopsy revealed Sophia died due to accidental "fresh water drowning" on Thursday, July 24. According to officials, there were no underlying medical conditions that contributed to the incident. The coroner's office emphasized that the cause of death was accidental, and they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

More than 500 people were expected to attend the funeral, according to statements from the Bhutanese Community in Harrisburg (BCH). The community expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Sophia, describing the event as one filled with love and compassion. In a statement shared via social media, the BCH highlighted how the presence of so many people brought comfort to the grieving family and strengthened the community during this difficult time.

Pennsylvania State Senator Patty Kim also spoke about the support shown by Sophia’s school and the Bhutanese community. She described the response as "strong and beautiful," and she pledged to continue praying for the family as they navigate their grief.

Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas paid tribute to Sophia in a public statement, noting how the event reflected a powerful display of unity. He mentioned that hundreds of members of the Bhutanese community attended the funeral, showing their deep connection to the family and their shared sense of loss. Douglas shared stories of Sophia being "bubbly, kind, full of life," and always greeting others with a warm "Namaste" and hugs. These memories, he said, painted a vivid picture of her gentle spirit.

Sophia’s family described the loss as an "irreparable chasm" in their hearts. The community emphasized the importance of collective support, and they expressed a commitment to carrying forward Sophia’s light through memorial initiatives, safety advocacy, and shared love.

Sophia was known for her kindness and respect toward others. Bhutanese Community of Harrisburg (BCH) Chairman Tilak Niroula shared that she was a very outgoing and friendly child who would often greet new people with a smile and a wave. Her parents and 5-year-old sister are still dealing with the emotional impact of the tragedy and have chosen not to speak publicly at this time.

A GoFundMe page has been created to support the family as they cope with the loss. The funds will help with funeral expenses and other related costs.

Hershey Entertainment & Resort, the company that operates Hersheypark, issued a statement expressing their condolences. CEO John Lawn stated that safety is the company’s top priority and assured visitors that every decision is made with their well-being in mind. The company has committed to thoroughly investigating the incident and honoring Sophia’s memory by continuing to focus on guest safety.

Derry Township Police have also expressed their condolences to the family and friends of Sophia. They are working to gather all the facts and plan to release a final review of the incident by the end of the week.

As the community continues to mourn, they are finding strength in each other and in the memories of a young girl who touched so many lives. Sophia’s legacy will live on through the love and support of those who knew her.