A loaded handgun was discovered this week inside Splish Splash Water Park in Calverton, prompting serious concerns about security at the popular destination.

The weapon was found Wednesday evening during what police say was a disturbance between several young people. Among the witnesses was 14-year-old Alivia Vilmenay, who was working at the park as a line attendant when the incident unfolded.

“Some kid just pulled a gun right out of his bathing suit shorts and pointed it at another kid,” Vilmenay said in an exclusive interview with News 12. “I was really scared. The first thing I thought was, ‘How did that get past security? And how was that so close to me?’”

According to Riverhead police, the firearm was loaded. Officers responded to the scene and secured the weapon, which was later recovered by detectives. No injuries were reported.

In response, a spokesperson for Splish Splash issued a brief statement: “Safety is our top priority. We are fully cooperating with the Riverhead Police Department as they investigate this matter further.”

But for Vilmenay and her family, the experience has left lasting fear and frustration.

“I was shocked and concerned that security was kind of lacking,” said Lisette Vilmenay, Alivia’s mother. “Just definitely terrified as a parent—not only was my daughter working there and standing there when that happened, but for everyone else’s child.”

Alivia says she’s unsure whether she can return to her job after the terrifying encounter. “I think they need to do a whole lot better with safety,” she said. “I should feel safe at my job.”

News 12 reached out to Splish Splash to ask whether the park plans to update its security procedures following the incident, but as of Friday evening, the park has not provided a response.