Boy, 8, drowns in swimming pool in display home near Shepparton

A boy has drowned in a display home’s pool near Shepparton in the state’s north.

Police confirmed emergency services had been called to a display home in Kialla just before 7pm on Sunday after reports the boy had been found unresponsive in a swimming pool.

The eight-year-old boy had received medical assistance at the home, owned by building company G.J. Gardner Homes, but died at the scene, police said.

A spokeswoman for G.J. Gardner Homes said there was fencing around the pool, and that it was in compliance with all pool safety regulations.

“We were devastated to learn of the tragic accidental drowning at one of our display homes in Shepparton, Victoria, over the weekend,” she said.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the young boy, and our thoughts remain with them as they navigate this heartbreaking time.”

The spokeswoman said the business would do everything it could to support authorities with the investigation.

“We are also providing support to the Shepparton team as they are understandably distressed by this tragedy,” she said. “Out of respect for the family, we will not be making any further comments at this time.”

The display home is open on Sundays from 10am to 5pm.

Police will prepare a report for the coroner.

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