King Overton was excited to learn how to swim on his first day at summer camp. His death is now raising painful questions about water safety, supervision, and access to lifesaving swim lessons.

A summer camp drop-off is supposed to feel routine. A kiss goodbye. A reminder to listen to the adults. Maybe a packed lunch, a backpack, and a child excited to come home with a new skill.

For LaTaisha Johnson, that ordinary morning became the last time she saw her 9-year-old son, King Overton, alive.

Local coverage reports that Monday, June 15, was his first day of summer camp, and he was preparing to learn how to swim. Around 2:30 p.m., he was pulled unresponsive from the pool. Staff reportedly began CPR before first responders arrived, and King was taken to a local hospital, where he died.

Johnson told local reporters her son had been excited that morning. Their final exchange was the kind of thing parents say every day without thinking it could become sacred: She told him she loved him. He told her he loved her back.

Now, she wants answers.

As of now, officials have not publicly explained exactly what happened in the moments before King was found in the water. SwimRVA said in a statement that it is cooperating with authorities as they review the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“Our hearts are with the child’s family and loved ones during this loss,” the organization said, extending condolences to everyone affected.Family

But for King’s family and community, condolences are only one part of the story. They are grieving a child remembered as full of personality and joy, while also asking the questions any parent would ask: Who was watching? What safety measures were in place? How does a child go to a swim program to learn safety and not come home?