Full Breakdown
Investigation into Drowning of 12-Year-Old Scuba Diver in Texas
2/16/2026, 2:35:56 AM
Incident Overview
On August 16, 2025, 12-year-old Dylan Harrison drowned during a scuba diving class at The Scuba Ranch in Terrell, Texas. The instructor, William Armstrong, was responsible for a group of eight students at the time of the incident. Following the tragedy, Armstrong was arrested on February 6, 2026, and charged with injury to a child. He was released after posting a $150,000 bond.
Key Details of the Incident
An affidavit revealed critical information regarding Armstrong's actions during the class. It stated that he was on land without diving gear when first responders arrived, contradicting his initial claim that he had been searching for Harrison in the water. Witness accounts confirmed that Armstrong was "bone dry" and not actively participating in the search when help arrived. Additionally, Harrison's dive watch indicated she was likely not weighted properly, a crucial safety measure for divers.
Instructor's Condition and Background
Armstrong admitted to investigators that he had been awake for approximately 29 hours, working multiple jobs, which raised concerns about his physical and mental fitness to supervise a diving class. Prior to the incident, he had worked a full day as a deputy and an overnight security shift. Following the drowning, Armstrong resigned from his position with the Collin County Sheriff’s Office and was permanently suspended from teaching at The Scuba Ranch.
Legal and Community Response
In the wake of the incident, Dylan Harrison's parents filed a lawsuit against two major scuba diving agencies, alleging systemic safety failures that contributed to their daughter's death. The lawsuit claims that the scuba diving industry has neglected safety protocols, leading to tragic outcomes. A spokesperson for The Scuba Ranch stated that the organization is cooperating with the ongoing investigation and hopes for justice and closure for the family.
Criticism of Instructor's Actions
Legal experts have commented on the implications of Armstrong's actions. Appellate attorney Chad Ruback noted that Armstrong's lack of sleep and contradictory statements could negatively impact his case in court. He suggested that a jury would likely view Armstrong's behavior unfavorably, potentially leading to a conviction.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the affidavit provides substantial details about the incident, discrepancies remain regarding the exact circumstances of Harrison's drowning and the adequacy of safety measures in place during the class. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify these issues and determine accountability within the scuba diving community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's as if someone says, well, they shouldn't be culpable.” — Chad Ruback, Appellate Attorney
- “We pray this family receives the answers, justice, and closure they deserve, and that all of the dive community would be strengthened through what we learn from this tragedy,” — Spokesperson for The Scuba Ranch
The investigation into the drowning of Dylan Harrison continues, with both legal and community responses highlighting the need for improved safety standards in scuba diving instruction.
