On Sunday, October 22, 2023, an unfortunate incident took place at Harbourside Place shopping mall in Jupiter, Florida. An electrocution event at a restricted fountain area marked with ‘do no climb or swim’ resulted in one adult’s death and the hospitalization of four other people, including three children.

According to reports, paramedics and police officers responded to a distress call that a child was in trouble in the fountain, situated in front of a stage at the Harbourside Place. Upon arrival, they discovered several people, both children and adults, who had suffered from electric shocks from the fountain after they had gone in to help the child.

The adult victims were taken to Jupiter Medical Center, where, one of them succumbed to their injuries and died. The other adult has since been released. As for the three children, they were rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center where they are recovering.

Witnesses at the scene provided a harrowing account of the incident. One person recounted how a friend attempted to rescue what appeared to be a father and child from the water near the splash pads but was unable to help the father. Moreover, first responders initially thought they were attending to a drowning event, only to find eight people in need of medical assistance due to the electric shock.

Immediately after the incident, the surrounding area of the fountain and the adjacent outdoor stage was cordoned off with crime scene tape. This precaution was taken as the Jupiter police began their investigations in conjunction with other relevant authorities.

Harbourside Place, where the incident occurred, is a popular destination in Jupiter, Florida. It boasts a waterfront complex complete with shopping venues, dining options, and an amphitheater. Notably, the sign nearby did clearly state that no swimming or climbing was allowed in the vicinity.

The investigation is still in progress. Detectives and officials are working in collaboration with the town of Jupiter Building Department, Harbourside Place management, and Florida Power & Light to determine the exact cause of the tragic event.

Crowdfunding campaigns and community-led initiatives have been started to provide financial and emotional support to those affected. Local community members have been leaving flowers, candles, and stuffed toys near the fountain area as a tribute to the victims.