6-Year-Old Boy Found at the Bottom of Pool During Lifeguard’s Lunch Break: Authorities

**Tragic Near-Drowning Incident at Washington Soccer Camp Raises Safety Concerns**

A six-year-old boy, Adonis Jackson, is recovering in hospital after a distressing near-drowning incident that took place at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) on July 20 during a Nike soccer camp. The young athlete’s life was saved thanks to the efforts of camp staff, but the absence of a lifeguard at the time of the incident has prompted serious questions regarding safety protocols at the facility.

According to a police report from UDC, Jackson was discovered at the bottom of the swimming pool by camp counsellors. They had been monitoring activities when the alarming situation unfolded. Reports indicate that, following a lunch break taken by the pool’s lifeguard, the facility was left without supervision. This lapse in oversight has raised significant concerns from family representatives and the public alike.

Initial efforts to rescue Jackson were undertaken by a camp counsellor, who jumped into the pool; however, they struggled to recover him. It was the head coach who ultimately succeeded in bringing Jackson to safety and immediately began administering first aid. At the time of his rescue, Jackson was reported to be unresponsive but breathing. He was taken to Children’s National Hospital for further treatment.

In a statement, UDC expressed its sorrow over the incident, affirming that “emergency responders from UDC Police and DC FEMS were contacted” and that Jackson was subsequently transported to the hospital. The university also conveyed their thoughts for the boy’s wellbeing and a swift recovery. In response to the incident, UDC has closed the pool while it conducts a full review of the circumstances surrounding the event.

Dominique Calhoun, the attorney representing Jackson’s family, disclosed that the young boy’s condition improved within 24 hours following the incident. “Today and at this moment, Adonis is stable and we are thankful to God, to the physicians, to the nurses, and all who are taking care of him,” Calhoun said. Nonetheless, he emphasised the emotional toll that this incident has taken on the family, expressing their disorientation and distress amid the ordeal.

The attorney also raised concerns regarding the safety protocols in place, querying how a child could nearly drown at an ostensibly supervised camp activity. “How do we get from a soccer camp to a drowning?” Calhoun questioned, suggesting the need for greater accountability and enhanced safety measures. As it stands, Jackson’s family remains baffled, unsure of how he came to be submerged in the water for over two minutes.

In the wake of this incident, clarity is urgently needed regarding the camp’s safety procedures. Camp leaders reportedly allowed young participants to access the pool after structured camp activities had concluded. This revelation adds to the disquiet surrounding the adequacy of supervision during such crucial times, particularly in water-based environments.

As investigations continue, both the university and the Nike US Sports Camp have been approached for comments regarding the safety measures and protocols that were in effect during the camp. To date, there has been no immediate response from either party.

This incident shines a spotlight on the critical importance of ensuring safety and supervision in recreational activities, especially those involving children. While Jackson’s recovery remains hopeful, the lack of oversight during his playing time raises significant concerns about the protection afforded to children in similar environments. The families of participants in such camps will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how UDC addresses these serious safety flaws moving forward.