Key points
- Pool depth exceeds child limit by 24 centimetres, investigators say. No certified lifeguard was on duty during lessons.
- Teacher was not in the pool at the time. A nurse began CPR before paramedics moved her.
- Girl died seven days later in intensive care. Parents reject epilepsy claim and allege clear negligence.
A four-year-old girl has died after a swim class. The lesson took place at a private nursery in Turkey. Staff found her floating, then pulled her from the pool. She could not be saved despite urgent care.
The incident happened on 12 August in Bursa Province. It was at a nursery in the Suleymaniye neighbourhood. The child, Berra Dizi, was only four years old. She died seven days later in intensive care.
What investigators say about safety lapses
A prosecutors’ report points to clear safety failures at once. The pool measured 74 centimetres deep, above legal child limits. Rules set 50 centimetres as the cap for such pools. No certified lifeguard was on duty that day. The swim teacher was not in the water.
Children were in the pool without close in-pool supervision. A nurse attempted resuscitation before paramedics took over. Doctors later moved Berra to a specialist state hospital. She never regained consciousness, according to local reports. Experts urge child pool safety checks in all school settings.
Witness video showed frantic efforts beside the small pool. Staff shouted for help while the teacher called emergency services. She was moved to Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Education and Research Hospital. Doctors placed her in intensive care but her condition worsened.
Family rejects epilepsy claim
A 12-page report captured the family’s medical disclosure. Her mother noted two febrile seizures in early infancy. She had no seizures for two years, doctors confirmed. She stopped medication on medical advice before the incident. The school claimed an epileptic fit caused the drowning.
Her parents reject that view and allege poor oversight. Prosecutors continue the case to test possible negligence. A court will assess duties and any criminal liability. Local officials face a school safety oversight debate after recent incidents.
Police have gathered CCTV, staff logs, and training records. Parents say they want truth and reforms, not blame games. Community groups plan safety audits at private nurseries this term. Advocates also call for strict checks on pools used by schools.
