Illinois officials are investigating the tragic death of an 8-year-old Missouri girl, Sydney Weston, who experienced a medical emergency and died during a commercial flight on Thursday.

Emergency Mid-Flight

Sydney Weston, from Carl Junction, Missouri, was traveling with her family on a SkyWest Airlines flight when she suddenly fell ill and became unresponsive. The flight, originating from Joplin, Missouri, was en route to Chicago when the incident occurred. According to Peoria County Sheriff Chris Watkins, the flight had to make an emergency landing at Peoria International Airport in Illinois after being in the air for only 42 minutes.

Efforts to Save Young Sydney

Upon noticing Sydney’s condition, her family immediately alerted the flight crew, who quickly began administering aid. The plane, operating as United Express, was met by paramedics upon landing in Peoria. A SkyWest spokesperson commended the swift response of the crew and medical personnel who attempted to assist Sydney.

Despite these efforts, Sydney was found without a pulse and not breathing upon the plane’s landing. Sheriff Watkins reported that deputies responded to the medical emergency around 7 a.m. and that life-saving measures were immediately initiated. Unfortunately, Sydney was pronounced dead at a local hospital at 8:05 a.m.

Ongoing Investigation

An autopsy was scheduled for Friday to determine the official cause and manner of Sydney’s death. The Peoria County Coroner’s Office is leading the investigation, seeking to uncover the reasons behind this sudden and heartbreaking incident. Sheriff Watkins expressed condolences on behalf of the department, urging the public to keep Sydney’s family and all those involved in the traumatic experience in their thoughts and prayers.

This tragic event underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and the quick actions of airline crews and medical responders in critical situations. The investigation continues as officials aim to provide answers and closure to Sydney’s grieving family.