PEORIA, IL — A 6-year-old girl has died following a tragic incident at a North Peoria pool last week. Authorities identified the child as Nola A. Lobdell of Peoria.
Found Unresponsive at Mt. Hawley Country Club
According to Peoria Police spokeswoman Semone Roth, Nola and a 7-year-old girl were found unresponsive after hours at the Mt. Hawley Country Club while an employee appreciation event was underway. CPR was performed immediately before both children were rushed to OSF Healthcare Saint Francis Medical Center.
Medical Efforts and Death Reported
Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood said Nola arrived at the hospital unresponsive, not breathing, and without a heartbeat. Despite efforts to save her, her condition deteriorated, and she was pronounced dead at 2:14 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 1.
Autopsy and Ongoing Investigation
An autopsy has been scheduled for Monday, Aug. 4, Harwood said. Authorities have not released further details, and no update has been given on the 7-year-old’s condition.
Legal Steps Families Can Take After a Pool Drowning
When tragedy strikes at a community or private pool, families often face confusion about their legal rights. To help explain what options may be available, our team spoke with Illinois drowning lawyer Erv Nevitt, who shared his perspective on how negligence, supervision, and property safety standards factor into cases involving fatal drownings.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When something like this happens at a private club, families are often unsure where to begin. What are the first legal steps they should consider?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: The first step is preserving evidence. That includes photos, witness statements, and maintenance logs from the pool. Country clubs have a duty to maintain safe conditions, and failure to have adequate supervision or barriers could lead to liability.
Banville: Would the fact that an event was being held after hours affect potential responsibility?
Nevitt: It might. If the facility allowed or should have prevented access, questions of negligence and oversight come into play. These cases often turn on whether reasonable safety measures were in place and whether staff followed procedures required under Illinois law.
Banville: So families can pursue a civil claim even if an investigation remains underway?
Nevitt: Yes, families have a separate right to pursue a civil claim for wrongful death or negligence. Acting promptly helps ensure critical evidence isn’t lost.
Free Legal Support for Families Affected by Drownings
Families who have lost a loved one in a drowning accident may be entitled to answers and compensation. Our team is committed to helping victims understand their rights and take action when negligence may be involved. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case with an experienced drowning attorney.
