Heartbreaking news from a family holiday in Greece. Five-year-old Theo Treharne-Jones, a joyful and loving little boy from Merthyr Tydfil, tragically lost his life in a swimming pool accident. Despite efforts by hotel guests and staff to save him, Theo was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Theo was on holiday with his family at the Atlantica Holiday Village in Kos when he managed to leave their room and reach the pool area late at night. The inquest revealed Theo had a medical condition, Smith-Magenis syndrome, which affected his ability to sense danger, contributing to this devastating accident.
The hotel pool, which was 1.5m deep and officially closed at the time, had no lifeguard present. Understandably, Theo’s family was unaware of his movements as they believed he was asleep.
Coroner Gavin Knox ruled the death as accidental, emphasising that Theo’s condition made him particularly vulnerable. Although hotel provider TUI had regularly audited the facilities, the coroner plans to issue a report urging improvements for families with vulnerable members to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Let’s remember Theo as the happy boy he was, who loved school, his toys, and cartoons. This sad event reminds us of the importance of safeguarding measures for vulnerable individuals on holiday. Our thoughts are with Theo’s family during this incredibly difficult time. ❤️