Authorities are currently investigating a tragic incident involving a man’s death at Disney’s Contemporary Resort outside Orlando, Florida. This unfortunate event marks the third death across Disney properties in less than two weeks, raising concerns among guests and visitors in the area near Walt Disney World.
The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that an investigation is underway, emphasizing that they are in the process of completing their examinations. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a significant presence of law enforcement in a secured area of the resort.
Earlier this week, another older man was found unresponsive at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground by his wife, who promptly called 911. Medical responders attempted to revive him using an automated external defibrillator, but he was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. No foul play was indicated in this incident, as stated by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
In one of the earlier cases, on October 14, Illinois resident Summer Equitz was discovered dead at the Contemporary Resort. Categorized as an “apparent suicide,” her passing followed a report of her being missing for several hours. A medical report revealed she had sustained multiple blunt impact injuries. Equitz was known for her love of Disney and had a passion for theater, considering the role of Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” as a dream come true.
In July of the same year, another death occurred at the Contemporary Resort involving Jeffery Vanden Boom from Wisconsin, who died from an accidental fall from a balcony.
The concerning trend extends beyond Florida, as a woman in her 60s also passed away after riding the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland in Anaheim, California earlier in October. First responders were summoned when she became unresponsive after exiting the attraction, but despite their efforts, she could not be revived.
It is important to remind individuals facing distressing thoughts or crises that help is available. In the U.S., the National Suicide Prevention Helpline can be contacted at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), while the Samaritans provide a reliable resource in the UK and Ireland.
As these investigations continue, the incidents are a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of mental health resources in times of need.