Onlookers at the 9/11 Memorial in New York City were left in shock as a 33-year-old man jumped into one of the memorial’s reflecting pools on Monday afternoon.
The incident, which unfolded around 1:30 p.m. local time, resulted in the man sustaining injuries to his left leg and back.
Authorities have charged him with criminal mischief and trespass.
Man descended into 9/11 Memorial’s central void
The man, who remains unidentified, was taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Described as an “apparently emotionally disturbed person” by a Port Authority spokesperson, he leaped into the north pool, one of two memorial pools marking the original Twin Towers’ locations.
Videos captured by onlookers reveal the man’s disturbing actions as he climbed into the square basin of the pool and eventually descended into the central void.
Witnesses reacted with screams and concerns for his well-being.
Port Authority Police used a maintenance access door to reach the man inside the pool, where he cryptically mentioned that he “did this for his father.”
In response to the incident, security personnel placed chains around the pool to prevent any further unauthorized access to the memorial.
Despite the incident’s dramatic nature, officials do not believe it was politically motivated.
9/11 Memorial visited by thousands each day
The memorial site in New York City, featuring two reflecting pools, holds special significance as it symbolizes the “absence made visible.”
The water flows into the pools, which then descend 30 feet into square basins and further drop 20 feet into smaller central voids.
These architectural elements provide a somber tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, with their names inscribed on bronze parapets encircling the pools.
According to city authorities, the site is visited by more than 6 million people annually.
After Monday’s incident, the reflecting pools were temporarily shut down, leaving tourists and visitors puzzled.
As an investigation into the matter continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the emotional weight and significance associated with the 9/11 Memorial.