DALLAS, TX – The recent resignation of William Armstrong, an assistant chief deputy with the Collin County Sheriff’s Office, follows the tragic death of 12-year-old Dylan Harrison during a scuba diving class. The incident has left her family and the community searching for answers.
Dylan, an energetic young girl with a love for activities like archery and gymnastics, was participating in a scuba certification when the unexpected tragedy occurred. The specifics of the incident remain unclear, prompting an ongoing investigation.
David Concannon, the attorney for the Harrison family, stressed the importance of accessing data from dive computers used by Armstrong and dive master Jonathan Russo. This information could reveal key details about the incident, but efforts to retrieve it have faced obstacles.
A witness attempted to provide critical information to the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office but was informed that the case had been closed. The witness reported seeing Armstrong leave the water while the search for Dylan continued, raising questions about the adherence to safety protocols.
Experts in scuba diving emphasize that instructors should remain in the water until all students are safe. Armstrong’s dry appearance and insistence on his innocence have drawn scrutiny.
Dylan’s parents were informed of her death more than an hour after it was officially confirmed. Initially marked as closed, the investigation has been reopened, with the Texas Rangers now involved.
In response to the incident, Armstrong has been permanently barred from teaching at the scuba facility. His role at the sheriff’s office, overseeing professional standards, is also under examination.
Attempts to contact Armstrong for his comments have redirected inquiries elsewhere. As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to mourn and seek clarity on this devastating event.