A tragic incident occurred at the Atlantic Reach Holiday Park in Cornwall, where a five-year-old boy drowned in the swimming pool after becoming separated from his parents. The inquest revealed that Robin Caliskan, from Plymouth, was found face down in the pool on the first day of the family’s holiday. The Caliskan family, consisting of parents Cemal and Ferzane, along with their two sons – Robin and six-month-old Renas, had arrived at the park on July 31 last year for a three-night break.
After setting up their tent at 2pm, the family decided to go swimming at the park’s indoor pool. Unfortunately, Robin got separated from his parents and was later discovered at the bottom of the pool. Despite efforts to resuscitate him by members of the public and paramedics, Robin tragically lost his life. Cemal Caliskan, Robin’s father, recalled the moments leading up to the incident, mentioning that the pool was crowded when they arrived, and he initially took Robin to the big pool before moving to the baby pool where the family took a photo together.
It was only when Ferzane returned from the big pool that they realised Robin was missing. The inquest showed that there were signs stating “No lifeguard on duty” at the pool, which Mr. Caliskan claimed he did not notice. Dr. Samantha Holden, a paediatric consultant, stated that the post-mortem examination revealed drowning as the cause of death. The inquest continues as the family grapples with the devastating loss of their son.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety, particularly when children are involved, and the significance of being vigilant in crowded swimming areas. The family’s holiday turned into a heartbreaking experience, highlighting the need for increased awareness and precautionary measures to prevent such tragedies from reoccurring.