Jacuzzi Electrocution Exclusive: Shocking Incident at a Mexican Resort
What started as a pleasant getaway became a horror story for one couple. A man died after a jacuzzi electrocution in Puerto Penasco, a Mexican resort town nicknamed Rocky Point.
About the Jacuzzi Electrocution
A man and woman were enjoying a hot tub soak on the evening of Tuesday, June 11. They were relaxing in the warm water of an outdoor jacuzzi near a swimming pool in a private condominium complex.
Mexican authorities did not immediately identify the couple. However, Subsequent reports revealed that the man was 43-year-old Guillen Zambrano, who was relaxing in the hot tub with his wife, 35-year-old Lizette Zambrano.
According to reports, the couple arrived at the Sonoran Sea Resort, a complex of high-rise condominiums, on June 11, the day of the incident. Several family members accompanied them. Later that evening, the couple headed to the jacuzzi to enjoy the sunset.
According to family members, Guillen became electrocuted the second he dipped his foot into the water. He fell into the jacuzzi and encountered a direct electric current. He became trapped underwater.
Lizette jumped in to save her husband, but the current shocked her. Cellphone footage shows several hotel guests screaming and trying to help the couple. Despite their efforts, the state of the water left them with little they could do.
The man died after the jacuzzi electrocution. Authorities airlifted Lizette to a U.S. hospital. She was in critical condition.
Sonora state authorities are investigating the death and have not yet determined the official cause.
Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed
Later reports reveal Lizette Zambramo has filed a wrongful death lawsuit for $1 million in damages against vacation providers Casago International and travel company High Desert Travel.
The lawsuit holds the company responsible for the faulty electrical wiring that caused the accident. Moreover, it claims the resort managers failed to alert guests about the hot tub hazard and did not respond to the incident quickly enough.
“There was not a single staff member that did anything while Jorge (Guillen) was getting continuously shocked again and again underwater,” said Tej Paranjpe, Lizette’s attorney.
Moreover, he explained that ten minutes had passed since the resort workers had responded. The manager finally retrieved Guillen from the water. Nevertheless, it was too late.
Sonora state prosecutors reported that investigators were investigating the “origin of the failure.” Furthermore, they announced plans to conduct studies to determine the underlying issue in the coming days.
How Common are Hot Tub Electrocutions?
Jacuzzi electrocutions are rare, but they do occur. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a total of 33 injuries and 33 jacuzzi electrocution-related deaths happened in the U.S. between 2002 and 2018.
The electrocutions are typically the result of a malfunction. They may be related to underwater lights, power chords, electric pool equipment, overhead power lines, and other nearby electrical sources.
Know the Signs of Jacuzzi Electrocution
Several signs indicate you are swimming in water with an electric current. Consequently, you might feel a tingling sensation, experience muscle cramps, or feel like something is holding you in place. In some instances, you may be unable to move at all.
If an electric current affects you in the water, promptly move away from the source and get out of the water. Additionally, avoid using a metal ladder to exit, as it may increase the risk of shock. If you see someone getting electrocuted in the water, take immediate action: turn off the power sources and call emergency services.
Vacation season is here. Share these tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe.