07/17/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement from the Swain County Recreation Department and Deep Creek Waterpark
The Swain County Recreation Department and Deep Creek Waterpark are aware of a medical emergency that occurred yesterday at Deep Creek Waterpark involving an apparent overdose.
Our thoughts are with the individual involved, as well as their family and loved ones during this difficult time.
We would like to recognize and commend our Deep Creek Waterpark staff for their professionalism, quick thinking, and calm response to the situation. Their immediate actions in securing the area, assisting emergency responders, and ensuring the safety of our guests reflected the high standards of training and care we strive to maintain.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Swain County Emergency Medical Services, local law enforcement, and all responding emergency personnel for their rapid response, expert care, and coordinated efforts.
We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the community members and guests who stepped forward to assist during the emergency. Your willingness to help, remain calm, and support both the individual in need and first responders exemplifies the compassion and strength of our community. We are deeply appreciative of your actions.
The health and safety of our guests and staff remain our highest priority. As a precaution, the affected restroom and surrounding areas were immediately closed and underwent thorough cleaning and sanitization in accordance with established health and safety protocols before being reopened for public use.
While this was an isolated incident, we understand that events of this nature can be concerning. We want to reassure our community and visitors that Deep Creek Waterpark remains committed to providing a safe, clean, and family-friendly environment for everyone who visits.
We appreciate the patience, understanding, and cooperation of our guests during the response to this incident. Out of respect for the privacy of the individual involved and their family, no additional information will be released at this time.
Swain County Recreation Department
Deep Creek Waterpark
