Paros beach bar pool sealed after 4-year-old drowned, operated without licence since 2023

The drowning

A 4-year-old boy lost his life on Saturday 8 August in a pool at a beach bar on the island of Paros. The child was at the establishment with his family when, under circumstances still being investigated, he was found in the water. He was pulled out unconscious by a bartender shortly after. Authorities continue to examine the exact conditions that led to the drowning.

Pool sealed

On 13 August, the Municipal Committee ordered the immediate sealing of the pool after evidence emerged that it had been operating without the required licence since 2023. The responsible deputy mayor carried out the sealing of the business's swimming pool. The decision came days after the tragedy that shook Paros.

Ongoing investigation

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the child's death. All evidence concerning the pool's operation is expected to be examined, including any omissions or violations related to required licences and safety rules. The business is now the focus of inspections by the competent authorities.

Regulatory questions

The case has drawn attention to the enforcement of licensing requirements for swimming pools at beach bar establishments. The pool in question had reportedly been operating without a licence for approximately three years before the incident. The Municipal Committee acted after the data surfaced, ordering the deputy mayor to seal the pool.