74-year-old woman submerged for 12 minutes after slipping in Yong An Park condominium pool
A 74-year-old woman tragically drowned in the swimming pool of a River Valley condominium after slipping and remaining submerged for 12 minutes. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures for elderly individuals at recreational facilities.
Incident Overview
At approximately 11:23 a.m., a 74-year-old retiree from China, Ye Xiuzhen (transliteration), drowned in the swimming pool of Yong An Park condominium in River Valley, Singapore. Ye had arrived in Singapore with her family in January 2024 and was scheduled for a one-on-one swimming lesson that day. While waiting for her coach, she entered the 0.9-meter-deep pool with a lifebuoy around her waist to practice walking in the water.
Sequence of Events
According to reports, Ye slipped and was submerged underwater for approximately 12 minutes before being discovered. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by emergency responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident was later reviewed in a coroner’s inquiry held on May 28, 2025.
Safety Concerns
The tragedy has sparked discussions about the adequacy of safety measures for elderly individuals in swimming facilities. Experts emphasize the importance of supervision, especially for seniors engaging in aquatic activities, and the need for proper safety equipment and protocols to prevent such incidents.
Ongoing Investigations
The Singapore Police Force has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of Ye’s drowning. Preliminary findings suggest no foul play, and the incident is being treated as a tragic accident.
Preventive Measures
In light of this incident, safety advocates recommend the following measures to enhance pool safety for the elderly:
– Ensuring constant supervision during swimming activities
– Installing anti-slip surfaces around pool areas
– Providing easy access to emergency equipment
– Conducting regular safety drills and awareness programs
The unfortunate drowning of Ye Xiuzhen serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly in recreational settings. It underscores the necessity for enhanced safety measures, vigilant supervision, and community awareness to protect our senior citizens. For both Singaporeans and Indonesians, this incident highlights the shared responsibility in ensuring the well-being of the elderly in communal spaces.
Sources: Mothership (2025) , Sure Boh (2025)
Keywords: Elderly Woman Drowns, River Valley Condo, Swimming Pool Accident, Yong An Park, Singapore Drowning
