Tragedy Beneath the Surface: The Scuba Class That Took a Young Life

A Heartbreaking Incident

The recent lawsuit filed by the parents of 12-year-old Dylan Harrison brings to the forefront troubling issues within the scuba diving industry. On August 16, 2025, Dylan tragically drowned during a private open water diving class at The Scuba Ranch in Terrell, Texas. The suit claims not only was her death preventable, but it also stems from systemic negligence.

The Events Leading Up to the Drowning

According to reports, Dylan's parents purchased the class from a local dive shop called Scubatoys. When they arrived, they were told Dylan would be placed in a group with six other students. Concerningly, the divemaster had assured them, "I will not take my eyes off your daughter," a promise that, according to the lawsuit, was not upheld.

Systemic Safety Failures

Dylan's last moments in the water highlight significant lapses in safety protocols. It was reported that Assistant Chief Deputy for the Collin County Sheriff's Office, William Armstrong, who was also a part-time scuba instructor, failed to check if Dylan was adequately weighted before she entered the water. This oversight is troubling, particularly given his dual-responsibility as a deputy and security officer, raising questions about his attentiveness to the students during this critical time.

Dylan was last seen alive at 9:36 a.m. and resurfaced at 10:12 a.m. after experiencing a communication mix-up with a peer. The lawsuit alleges that emergency services weren't called until fifteen minutes later, time that could have been crucial to her survival. The lawsuit surmises that Dylan had sufficient air in her tank when initially found, indicating she was alive and breathing underwater for several minutes after going missing.

The Lessons Yet to Be Learned

The tragic nature of Dylan's death reveals broader implications within the scuba industry. The lawsuit indicates that “multiple failures” in safety protocols have gone unchecked for years. Notably, attorneys for the Harrison family referenced a 2017 staff meeting video where Scubatoys' owner Joe Johnson made flippant remarks regarding safety measures. He seemed more concerned about liability than the welfare of the children in his classes, declaring, "All I know is we've killed, what? 4 people? 5 people?" This alarming statement reflects a culture that appears to prioritize profit over the safety and lives of its students.

Public Response and Industry Accountability

In the wake of this lawsuit, the diving community and the general public must reconsider what safety protocols are truly in place. As incidents like this become more prevalent, it raises questions about industry-wide standards and accountability. This isn't just a tragic story about one girl; it's indicative of a potential crisis point for an industry that must do better.

Conclusion: A Call for Reform

As the legal proceedings unfold, it is imperative for both the diving industry and safety regulators to reassess their practices. A child's life is invaluable, and Dylan Harrison's heartbreaking story should serve as a call for substantive safety reforms. If neglect continues to be overlooked, we will inevitably witness more tragedies that could have been prevented.

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