11-year-old girl drowns in hotel swimming pool after trying to save her little sister

An 11-year-old girl from Ohio tragically drowned in a hotel swimming pool when trying to save her younger sister from the same fate.

On 2 June, Mackenzie Cornell, who is being remembered as a hero, rushed to save her nine-year-old sister from drowning when she fell into the deep end of the pool at the Ohio Quality Inn hotel.

The harrowing incident happened at a pool party where no lifeguard was on duty.

CPR was given to both girls when a Scioto County Sheriff's deputy and members of the Porter Township Rescue Squad arrived at the pool.

Cornell's sister was resuscitated, but devastatingly the 11-year-old was pronounced dead after being rushed to hospital as a result of not responding to CPR.

Mackenzie Cornell tragically drowned in a hotel swimming pool on 2 June. (WSAZ)

The aunt of the two girls, Helen Cornell, said as reported by WSAZ: "Her little sister went into the deep end of the pool and couldn’t swim very well and her big sister went to save her and she ultimately died."

She concluded: "'There’s no greater love than giving herself for her sister."

Cornell attended Bloom Vernon Elementary and was in fourth grade.

Her teacher Kristi Davis said: "'She was an absolute sweetheart. Very loving and kind," while her principal, Sandy Smith, said she was a 'sweetheart of a little girl'.

Cornell's obituary remembers her as a 'girly girl who loved shopping and going to Claire's Boutique'.

It continues: "She enjoyed everything outside, always following her grandmother out to the garden and helping with anything going on outside.

Teachers said they will miss Mackenzie Cornell's smile. (WSAZ)

"She was funny, brilliant and enjoyed drawing. Most of all she loved her sister, her cats and dogs. She was the happiest when helping others."

Following Cornell's untimely passing, the community of South Webster in Ohio have gathered to remember her light.

It has also been reported that 'family and friends said Mackenzie was a kind and gentle soul'.

They added that "Teachers at Bloom-Vernon Elementary School said they will miss her smile."

Cornell's obituary informs people that her funeral will be held on 8 June at 1pm EDT. Online condolences can be sent to DWswickFuneralHome.com

Tyla has reached out to Choice Hotels for comment.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.