In a heartbreaking turn of events, two Americans have tragically lost their lives from apparent drownings in separate incidents at the same resort in the Bahamas. According to officials, these incidents occurred at the newly opened Celebration Key, a lavish $600 million private resort catering to guests of Carnival Cruise Line, which officially opened in July.
On Friday, Carnival Cruise Line reported that their lifeguards and medical team responded to two separate emergencies at Celebration Key. One incident took place in the lagoon, while the other occurred at the beach. Sadly, both guests were pronounced dead, prompting a statement from Carnival expressing their condolences: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests and their families, and our Care Team is providing assistance."
According to Carnival Cruise Line, one victim was a passenger aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras, while the other was traveling on the Carnival Elation. Both individuals were reportedly on vacation with their families during this tragic incident.
The Royal Bahamas Police Force has confirmed that it is leading the investigations into both deaths. Just before noon on Friday, a 79-year-old man became unresponsive while snorkeling at one of the beaches of Celebration Key. Lifeguards promptly assisted him from the water and attempted to administer CPR; however, their efforts were in vain as he was pronounced dead by medical professionals.
In a separate incident at approximately 2:30 p.m. on the same day, a 74-year-old woman was found unresponsive in a swimming pool at the resort. Lifeguards performed CPR on her as well, but sadly, they could not revive her. Both victims, identified as American nationals, have had their names withheld pending further notification of their families. Autopsies are scheduled to ascertain the exact causes of death.
In an unrelated incident, the Royal Bahamas Police Force reported that a 63-year-old American man was attacked by a shark while spearfishing off Big Grand Cay around 1 p.m. on Saturday. The man, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, suffered severe injuries and was treated at a local clinic before being airlifted to the United States for further medical care.
Carnival Cruise Lines has stated that they are fully cooperating with law enforcement during the investigation surrounding the drownings. "We are saddened by the loss of our guests. Our trained lifeguards and medical professionals respond promptly to ensure guest safety," the company added.
The tragic events at Celebration Key have cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful vacation experience for families. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding these incidents as they seek to provide answers and support to the grieving families involved.
