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Echo Dale Regional Park (Image Credit: File Photo/CHAT News)
City pools and Echo Dale Regional Park closed

Medicine Hat Police confirm that child involved in an incident at Echo Dale Regional Park on Monday has died

Jun 16, 2026 | 9:19 AM

The Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) confirmed on Tuesday morning that the child involved in an incident at Echo Dale Regional Park on Monday has died.

MHPS says the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation; however, foul play is not suspected.

They add that their thoughts are with the child’s family, classmates, school staff, first responders, and all those affected by this tragic incident.

MHPS states that no further details are being released out of respect for the privacy of the child and the family.

An 11-year-old child was taken to the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital in the afternoon on Monday following an incident at Echo Dale Regional Park, resulting in the park’s closure and an investigation by the Medicine Hat Police Service.

Police said officers responded at about 2:17 p.m. to a report of a missing child at the park. The child was located at about 3:30 p.m. and transported by EMS, and the family was notified.

The City of Medicine Hat announced on Monday afternoon that Echo Dale Regional Park had been closed until further notice due to the incident, and it will remain closed while the investigation continues.

HALO-1 was dispatched by HALO Air Ambulance to assist police with a search-and-rescue mission at the park.

READ: Child has been taken to hospital as police investigate Echo Dale Regional Park incident (June 15, 2026)

The City of Medicine Hat has closed all city-operated pools and aquatic facilities following the death of a child at Echo Dale Regional Park.

The city confirmed Tuesday that a serious incident at the park resulted in the death of a child. Officials extended their condolences to the family, friends and all those affected by the tragedy.

City officials say the closures will remain in effect until further notice to allow for a thorough review of the incident and to provide support for staff and others impacted.

Support resources are being made available to aquatic staff, first responders, and others who may need assistance.

The City has reached out to community partners and local school divisions to ensure appropriate supports are accessible to young people and families.

Interim City Manager Joe Hutter says he cannot begin to imagine the grief the family is experiencing.

“Our heartfelt condolences are with the child’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” Hutter said in a statement.

The City says the safety and wellbeing of its residents and employees is their highest priority.

Adding, that they are working with authorities and are committed to reviewing this incident and will provide updates related to the review as more information becomes available.

Updates on facility reopenings will be provided once confirmed.

The City stated that they ask the community to keep the family and all those impacted in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.