STOWE TOWNSHIP, PA — Allegheny County Police are investigating the heartbreaking death of a two-year-old child who drowned in a backyard pool on Monday evening, July 28, 2025. The tragic incident occurred in Stowe Township, a close-knit community in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, leaving neighbors and first responders devastated.
According to the Allegheny County Police Department (ACPD), County 911 was alerted to the emergency at approximately 7:03 p.m. after reports came in that a toddler had been found unresponsive in a pool. Immediate efforts were made by nearby residents, who began performing CPR on the child while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
The toddler was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, but despite the life-saving efforts of both bystanders and medical personnel, the child was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the child gained access to a neighbor’s pool, though the exact circumstances remain under review. It is not yet clear how the child entered the property or whether any safety barriers or pool enclosures were in place.
The Allegheny County Police Homicide Unit has taken the lead in the investigation, which is standard procedure in cases involving the sudden and unexpected death of a child. Authorities say no foul play is suspected at this time, but a full investigation is ongoing to determine how the tragic chain of events unfolded.
In a statement released late Monday, a spokesperson for the ACPD emphasized the critical importance of pool safety, particularly during the summer months:
“This is a devastating loss, and our thoughts are with the child’s family and everyone impacted by this tragedy. We urge all residents to ensure that pools are secured with proper fencing, locked gates, and supervision at all times — especially when young children are nearby.”
Neighbors in the Stowe Township community expressed sorrow and disbelief over the incident. One resident, who lives near the scene, shared that the neighborhood is mourning deeply and that support is already being offered to the grieving family. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare,” she said. “We’re just heartbroken.”
As authorities continue their investigation, grief counselors and crisis response teams are reportedly being made available to assist those affected by the tragedy, including first responders and community members who attempted to render aid.
No further information about the child or the family has been released at this time out of respect for their privacy.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist around pools and other bodies of water, especially for toddlers and small children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning remains one of the leading causes of unintentional injury death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.
The Allegheny County Police Department is asking anyone with information relevant to this case to contact the ACPD Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS (1-833-255-8477). Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and neighbors of the young child lost far too soon. May their memory be a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of community vigilance and care.
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