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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Joe Sullivan

Scottish dad drowns at Florida theme park in 'heartbreaking' accident

A SCOTTISH dad drowned at a Florida waterpark leaving his family heartbroken.

Doug Reid, from Aberdeenshire, was visiting Orlando's Discovery Cove water park with his wife and son when tragedy struck.

Resort staff found the 51-year-old motionless in a pool on July 8, and pulled him from the water.

Reid was taken to a local hospital, but later passed away, with his family saying that he had a heart attack while snorkelling in the water and drowned.

He left behind his wife Angela and son Sam, who are waiting for his body to be repatriated to Scotland tomorrow morning.

Angela posted on Facebook: "When snorkelling he had a heart attack and then drowned in the reef.

"After being rescued and transported to a local hospital he sadly passed away.

"Sam and I are totally heartbroken. We have no words for this sudden tragedy."

The family was five days into a two week vacation when Reid lost his life.

A spokesperson for Discovery Cove said: "Our staff responded to a medical emergency involving a guest at 10am on July 8.

"Our team provided care. When emergency personnel arrived, they took over care and transported the guest to a nearby hospital.

"Our thoughts are with the family."

Angela's post on Facebook announcing his passing drew great sympathy from those who knew him.

Heidi Park said: "I'm so sorry for your huge loss. I worked with Doug many moons ago - he was a top man. Thinking of all the family at a heartbreaking time."

Ceri Humphreys added: "I am so sorry to hear this. Doug was a great guy and really helped me through my difficult divorce. I am devastated for both you and Sam."

Donna Montgomery said: "I am so so sorry to hear this about Doug, he was a lovely man."

Reid was a proud Aberdeen supporter, with his family urging Dons fans to applaud him in the 51st minute of the club's game against Airdrie on Tuesday night.

The family's appeal reads: "Doug was a lifelong Aberdeen supporter, and it would mean the world to his family if supporters attending Tuesday’s game against Airdrieonians could take part in a one minute applause in the 51st minute. Rest in peace, Doug."

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