Teen Dies in 1 of 3 Reported Drownings in Robertson County Over 2 Days
UPDATED:
ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – In the last two days Robertson County has experienced three separate drowning incidents, one of which sadly resulted in the loss of a teenager’s life.
The first incident occurred in the 3200 block of New Hall Road in Greenbrier at approximately 4:39 p.m. 16-year-old Robert Dale Broadrick, drowned in a pond. According to officials, Robert was mowing the lawn on a riding mower when it overturned into the pond and pinned the teen underneath.
According to Robertson County EMS Director Brent Dyer, despite the swift and diligent efforts by family members, followed by advanced cardiac life support from first responders during a downpour—including Robertson County EMS, the White House Community Volunteer Fire Department, and the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office—Robert did not survive. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. How long Robert was underwater in the pond before being discovered remains undetermined.
Robert Dale Broadrick, born on January 28, 2008, in Springfield, TN, to Tyler Dale Broadrick and Mary Frances “Fran” Norris, was an upcoming junior at East Robertson High School and a cadet in the Air Force Junior ROTC. According to his family, Robert loved hunting, fishing, playing video games, and airsoft. Known for his hardworking nature and good work ethic, he was always willing to help others. Robert Dale had a great sense of humor, enjoyed good clean fun, and always greeted people with a hug and a smile. His family and friends were his world, and he took pride in everything he did. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Robert Norris.
Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 2 pm at The Church at Grace Park, with visitation on Friday, July 26, from 1 pm to 8 pm, and Saturday, July 27, from 10 am until the service at the same location. Robert’s FULL online obituary can be read here.
Arrangements are entrusted to Austin & Bell Funeral Home, 533 Highway 76, White House, TN 37188. For more information, visit Austin & Bell Funeral Home. To send flowers from a local florist Click HERE
The second drowning occurred in the 5700 block of Hopewell Road earlier Monday, the first call coming into 911 at 7:57 a.m. In this case, a 2-year-old child fell into a pool but was quickly found by their mother. Thanks to immediate and effective CPR with instruction from a 911 Dispatch operator the child started breathing and could be heard crying even before medics arrived, officials said. The child was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and is currently reported to be in good condition.
The third drowning occurred on Sunday afternoon when first responders were called to a near-drowning involving a 1-year-old girl on Old Greenbrier Pike. The incident occurred around 12:44 PM. The young girl was found in a pool and CPR was performed prior to EMS arrival. She was awake and alert when Medics arrived but started to become lethargic during transport. First responders were concerned about the possibility of secondary drowning. The quick response and medical attention ensured that the girl was stabilized on scene and transported to Vandy Pediatrics, where she remained alert just prior to arrival.
These incidents are a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance around water and the impact such tragedies can have on families and the community. Local resources are available to support those affected during this challenging time.
The staff at Smokey Barn News extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of the teenager as they navigate this profound loss.