Tragic Drowning: 6-Year-Old Girl Found Unresponsive in Utica Backyard Pool

UTICA, N.Y. — June 22, 2025 — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Sunday morning in Utica as police confirmed the drowning of a 6-year-old girl on Hammond Avenue.

According to the Utica Police Department, officers were dispatched around 7:40 a.m. to the 1100 block of Hammond Avenue following a report of a missing child. It was initially unclear when the girl had last been seen, but surveillance footage from a nearby Ring camera offered a vital clue. The video showed the child walking down the driveway around 5:40 a.m.

As officers searched the area, their efforts quickly turned urgent. They soon discovered the child in an unresponsive state in an in-ground pool at the home. Without hesitation, officers pulled her from the water and began CPR, fighting to revive her as Utica Fire Department personnel arrived on scene.

The child was transported to Wynn Hospital, where healthcare professionals continued life-saving efforts. Sadly, she was pronounced deceased a short time later.

During the on-scene investigation, officials confirmed that the pool was properly fenced and the gates were securely locked. How the child managed to access the pool area remains under investigation.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the little girl,” Utica Police stated.

Utica Police say updates will be released as the investigation continues.

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