ROCKMART, GA — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the Paulding County community after 6-year-old Victoria King, a student at McGarity Elementary School, died during a school field trip to Carlton Farms in Rockmart on Wednesday. What was meant to be a day of fun and learning ended in grief when Victoria was discovered unresponsive in a pool near the property.
According to reports, the group from McGarity Elementary was visiting the popular educational farm when staff members realized around noon that Victoria was missing. A search began immediately, and moments later, she was found in a pool next to a house located on the property. Witnesses say bystanders and emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures, but despite their efforts, Victoria was pronounced dead at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center in Rome. Authorities believe the young girl drowned, though official findings are still pending.
The tragedy has left Victoria’s family devastated and searching for answers. In a statement released by her relatives, they expressed frustration and disbelief over how the school lost track of a first grader during a supervised trip. “They have not been told how school staff lost track of her, how she got to the pool, or how long she was there,” the statement read. The family also said they were never informed that a pool was part of the trip and questioned why the area was accessible or unsecured.
Adding to their grief, the Kings said no one from McGarity Elementary personally reached out to them following Victoria’s death. “Not a single call, message, or representative has contacted the parents to offer condolences or visit to mourn with them,” the family wrote. The school, however, issued a general letter to families in the community. Principal Jamesa Hodge said, “Our hearts are with the student’s family and loved ones. We will offer counseling and bereavement support services to all students and staff.”
The owners of Carlton Farms also released a statement expressing sorrow, saying, “The Carlton Family and staff at Carlton Farms are completely devastated and heartbroken from the recent tragic event that occurred on our farm. We covet your prayers of comfort for the family, school, and all those who were in attendance.” The farm has since suspended activities as they grieve and cooperate with investigators.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation to determine exactly how Victoria ended up in the pool and whether safety or supervision lapses played a role. Her funeral was held Monday morning, as a grieving community came together to remember a bright young girl whose life was cut short far too soon.