A wave of profound sorrow has enveloped the Peoria community following the tragic passing of 6-year-old Nola Amour, who lost her life after a drowning incident at Mt. Hawley Country Club on July 28, 2025. Nola, a vibrant and beloved child, had been in critical condition since the incident, which occurred during an employee appreciation event at the private club. Despite the tireless efforts of lifeguards, emergency responders, and medical professionals, Nola’s fight ended, leaving her family and community in deep mourning.

Nola and her 7-year-old sister were found unresponsive in the pool at Mt. Hawley Country Club, located at 7724 N Knoxville Ave, Peoria, Illinois, just before 7:45 p.m. on Monday, July 28. The pool was closed to the public for the private event, attended by club staff and their families. According to Peoria Police, club staff immediately pulled the children from the water and began life-saving measures. The 7-year-old regained consciousness at the scene, but Nola remained unresponsive. Emergency responders continued resuscitation efforts en route to a local hospital, where Nola was stabilized and placed in critical care. Her older sister, while hospitalized, is reported to be recovering, though her current condition has not been publicly updated.

The Peoria community held onto hope as Nola fought for her life in the intensive care unit. Tragically, that hope was extinguished when Nola’s mother confirmed her passing. In a heart-wrenching social media post, Nola’s mother shared her unimaginable grief, describing her daughter as a “vibrant, lively, and loving little girl” who was her “twin” and “the life of every single party.” Her raw and emotional words captured the depth of her loss:

“I CANNOT BELIEVE I have lost a child. I was supposed to be leaving with BOTH my kids, NOT just ONE! My sweet baby, my twin, my little replica! MY NOLA AMOUR!!! I’m soooooo sorryyyyyy babyyyyyy I’m so fuckin sorryyyyyyyy!!! If I could give my life for you to have yours I would—no hesitation. THIS IS A TRUE HEARTBREAK. I LITERALLY FELT MY HEART BREAK. I WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. You were our live wire, you were the life of every single party!!!! You were my girly girl. I knocked heads with you so much because you are my twin—literally. The one who always wanted to be where I was at, calling like she was my man lol, if I’m not home lol. I CANNOT ACCEPT THAT GOD NEEDED YOU MORE THAN ME. I’LL NEVER ACCEPT IT. BABY I CAN’T TAKE THIS!!! I love you more than words could ever express.”

The post, widely shared across social media, has sparked an outpouring of love, condolences, and support from friends, neighbors, and strangers alike. Nola’s infectious joy, described as a light that brightened every room, has left an indelible mark on those who knew her and even those who only learned of her through this tragedy.

The incident has prompted renewed discussions about water safety and supervision at private events, though authorities have emphasized that the focus remains on supporting the grieving family. The Peoria Police Department and Peoria Fire Department are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the drowning, but no additional details have been released about how the children ended up in the pool. Mt. Hawley Country Club has not issued a public statement, and attempts to reach club representatives for comment have been unsuccessful.

Nola’s memory is being honored by a community united in grief. Described as a child full of curiosity, energy, and love, she leaves behind her devastated parents, siblings, extended family, and countless others whose lives she touched. Plans for a memorial or community tribute are still in the early stages, but many have expressed a desire to celebrate Nola’s life in a way that reflects her vibrant spirit.

As Peoria grapples with this profound loss, Nola Amour’s legacy endures in the love she shared and the joy she brought to the world. Her name, meaning “love” in French, is a fitting testament to the warmth and light she radiated in her too-short life.

Rest in perfect peace, sweet Nola Amour. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.