Deputies responded around 11:30 a.m., to a report of a possible drowning near the Neuse River Greenway Trail and Loch Raven Parkway.
Witnesses told deputies that a child was swimming in the Neuse River near Milburnie Park when she went under and never resurfaced.
When first responders got there, the girl had already been pulled from the water. She was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Chopper 11 captured video of first responders performing CPR just moments after she was pulled from the water.
The gate to Milburnie Park is typically closed to prevent vehicle access to the river, but people often walk down the trail to swim. Signs posted along the path warn visitors to "swim at your own risk."
The location has historically been a popular swimming spot and has seen its fair share of near-drowning and drowning incidents.
The Raleigh Police Department, Knightdale Fire Department, and Wake County EMS responded to assist.
The child's name and age were not immediately released.
The incident remains under investigation, the sheriff's office said.
Last year, the sheriff's office investigated one drowning at the same location, and officials say there have been several drownings or near-drownings along this stretch of the Neuse River through the years.
Authorities continue to urge caution for anyone entering the water along the river.
Water safety tips include:
- Always know entry & exit points
- Check the current
- Avoid swimming after heavy rain
- Never swim alone
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