Family of 13-year-old girl who died on Florida holiday pay tribute to ‘beautiful soul’

A 13-year-old girl from Wales who died while on holiday in the US has been described by her family as a “beautiful soul”.

Anna Beaumont, from Cardiff, was found unresponsive in a pool at Discovery Cove in Orlando, Florida, on 28 May.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said she was taken to hospital in a critical condition but died the following day.

“Anna was a beautiful soul who has been taken from us in a tragic accident,” her family said in a statement.

“We are devastated by her loss, but she will never be forgotten.

“We would like to thank the emergency response teams and hospital staff in Orlando who tried so hard to save Anna’s life.

“We will not be making any further statements and ask for privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”

Miss Beaumont was a pupil at Radyr Comprehensive School in the Welsh capital.

The school’s headteacher Andrew Williams told Sky News “the very thought of losing a child is an unimaginable journey”.

“Anna was a cherished member of our school family, and her absence will be profoundly felt by pupils, staff and all who had the privilege of knowing her,” he said.

“Her spirit, kindness and presence touched so many lives. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Anna’s family.”

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive resort and sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando.

In a statement to local media, the company said its staff had “responded to an emergency involving a guest”.

Read more from Sky News:
Sole survivor of crash pays tribute to ‘amazing’ friends
Teenager describes horror of having leg cut off

“Our team provided care and contacted Orange County Fire & Rescue,” the statement added.

“When emergency personnel arrived, they took over care and transported the guest to a nearby hospital.

“Out of respect for privacy of our guests, we do not provide any health information. Our thoughts are with this family.”