Sheriff’s Office investigating ‘potential regulation violations’ at Land of Illusion

BUTLER COUNTY — Just days after a teen died in a suspected drowning at the Land of Illusion’s Aqua Adventures, the Butler County Sheriff’s Office said its been “inundated with complaints towards” the water park.

“There are a wide range of complaints insinuating the Aqua Adventures Park has violated various regulations,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “The complaints allege the park does not have certified life guards, life vest rules are not enforced and no rescue equipment is readily available, among others.”

Land of Illusion said its committed to providing a safe and fun recreation spot.

>> Dayton teen dies in suspected drowning at Butler County waterpark

“We prioritize guest safety and training for our team and diligently comply with all Ohio regulations governing the activities and offerings available at our Aqua Adventures Park,” a Land of Illusion spokesperson said. “We look forward to supporting and collaborating with the Butler County Sheriff’s Office and other state and local officials as they continue their investigations following the tragedy.”

The investigation comes two days after Mykiara Jones, 14, of Dayton, died in a suspected drowning at the water park.

Jones was pulled from the water and flown by CareFlight medical helicopter to Dayton Children’s Hospital. She was later pronounced dead at the hospital, a spokesperson for the Butler County Sheriff’s Office said in a media release.

The girl had been in the water for about 30 minutes before she was spotted by a lifeguard and was pulled out by firefighters, the spokesperson said.

“This is a tragedy no parent should have to endure. These are the calls first responders dread and have difficulty dealing with. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family,” Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said in the release.

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Jones said the investigation may extend beyond the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

“I plan on contacting OSHA and The Attorney General’s Office for assistance. After this tragedy the number of complaints has been staggering and I feel it’s very important to obtain all relevant facts to ensure everything is being done according to regulations and safety guidelines,”

Mykaira was a freshman at Middletown High School where her mother works in the district, Middletown City Schools Superintendent Marlon Styles said in a statement to district parents and community members.

“Mykiara Jones was a rising freshman at Middletown High School and we mourn for her family and friends. Mykiara’s mother works in our schools, so we will be wrapping our arms around her during this extremely difficult time,” Styles said.

After closing for a day Wednesday, Aqua Adventures was back open to the public Thursday morning.

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