One man learned the hard lesson that memorial reflection pools are for reflection and not DIY public water parks this week, horrifying passersby  — and landing under arrest — after diving headfirst into the North Pool at New York City’s 9/11 monument.


A 33-year-old man got a little too in the spirit of Ground Zero on Monday, wading through the pool where the World Trade Center’s North Tower used to stand. After several moments of wandering through the water feature, the man, whose identity is unknown, opted to lay down over the secondary ledge of the pool, gazing into the 20-foot drop below.



Despite falling headfirst down the roughly two-story drop — a tumble punctuated by screams and “Oh My God-s” from other visitors at the memorial —  the man survived and was transported to Bellevue Hospital where he was treated for a leg injury. He was ultimately taken into custody and has yet to be formally charged with any crimes, per the New York Post.



So take it from this free diver — if you’re gonna take a dip in the 9/11 reflection pool, at least bring your water wings. That fall has gotta hurt.