A second guest has died at a Walt Disney World property in Florida within a week. Authorities reported that a man in his 60s experienced a medical episode at the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground on Tuesday morning. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died. Officials have stated there were no signs of foul play in this incident.
Key Takeaways
- A man in his 60s died after a medical episode at Fort Wilderness Resort.
- This marks the second death at a Walt Disney World property in one week.
- The previous death involved a woman at the Contemporary Resort hotel.
- Another incident occurred at Disneyland California weeks prior.
Incident at Fort Wilderness Resort
On Tuesday, October 22, emergency services responded to a call at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. The initial report, made just after 7:30 a.m., indicated a “person down.” The incident took place in the Cottontail Curl loop area, which accommodates tents and pop-up camper vans.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the man, in his 60s, suffered a medical episode. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Despite medical efforts, he passed away. Authorities have concluded that the death showed no signs of criminal activity.
Fact Check
The Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is a popular Disney property offering a range of outdoor activities and accommodations, from tent sites to cabins. It has been a part of Walt Disney World since 1971.
Recent Death at Contemporary Resort
This latest death follows another incident just a week earlier. On October 14, Summer Equitz, a known Disney enthusiast, was found dead at the Contemporary Resort hotel. This hotel is located close to the Magic Kingdom.
Ms. Equitz had been reported missing hours before her discovery. Investigations determined her cause of death as “multiple blunt impact injuries.” Local authorities classified her death as an apparent suicide. They also dispelled rumors circulating that she had been hit by Disney’s monorail system.
“A man in his 60s experienced a medical episode and was transported to a local hospital, where unfortunately he died,” the Orange County Sheriff’s Office stated regarding the Fort Wilderness incident.
Background of Summer Equitz
Summer Equitz was a dedicated Disney fan. She had traveled to Orlando from her home in Naperville, Illinois, without informing her family. Her passion for Disney was evident in her online presence, where she frequently shared her experiences and interests.
According to a blog post she authored, Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” was her favorite show. She expressed a dream of playing Belle, the film’s heroine. A photograph shared on one of her social media accounts showed her with Disney CEO Bob Iger in April 2021, further highlighting her connection to the brand.
The investigation into Ms. Equitz’s death is currently ongoing. Both incidents have raised concerns among visitors and park observers.
Understanding Apparent Suicide
In cases of apparent suicide, authorities conduct thorough investigations to confirm the circumstances. This includes examining the scene, reviewing any available evidence, and performing an autopsy. The term 'apparent' is used until a definitive ruling is made by a medical examiner.
Previous Incident at Disneyland California
These two Florida deaths occur less than a month after another fatality at a Disney property on the West Coast. In late September, a woman in her 60s died after riding the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.
Anaheim Fire & Rescue responded to the resort for an unresponsive woman. She had just completed the ride. Security personnel at the California park immediately provided CPR. Paramedics continued life-saving efforts upon arrival. The woman was transported to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Investigation Details
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office in California is working to determine the exact cause of death for the woman at Disneyland. Details about her identity, including her name and specific age, have not been publicly released. These multiple incidents across Disney properties are being closely monitored by local authorities and park management.
- October 22: Man in 60s dies after medical episode at Fort Wilderness Resort, Walt Disney World, Florida.
- October 14: Summer Equitz dies at Contemporary Resort hotel, Walt Disney World, Florida, ruled apparent suicide.
- Late September: Woman in 60s dies after riding Haunted Mansion at Disneyland, California.
The recent cluster of deaths at Disney resorts underscores the importance of public safety and emergency response protocols at large theme park complexes. While the circumstances of each incident differ, authorities continue their investigations to provide clarity.
