6-year-old Paulding County student who died on field trip was found in pool, authorities say

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Polk County officials have released more information about an elementary school student who died during a field trip to a farm on Wednesday.

The 6-year-old from Hiram’s McGarity Elementary School went on the trip to Carlton Farms in Rockmart with her class. But at around noon, a staff member noticed she was missing, according to a Polk County public information officer.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Paulding County elementary student dies during field trip to farm, principal says

The girl, who has not been identified, was found unresponsive and unbreathing in a pool by the farm. She was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead, police and county officials said.

The school’s principal, Jamesa Hodge, said in a letter to parents that counseling services will be made available to students and staff.

“This is a difficult time for all of us, but I know our McGarity community will come together with compassion and care as we remember our classmate,“ she wrote. ”Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during this profoundly sad time."

In a statement posted to social media on Friday, Carlton Farms’ owners said activities at the farm have been paused.

“The Carlton Family and staff at Carlton Farms are completely devastated and heartbroken from the recent tragic event that occurred on our farm,” they wrote. “We covet your prayers of comfort for the family, school, and all those who were in attendance.”

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta New First as we learn more.