In what can only be described as a bizarre and shocking incident, a 42-year-old Alabama man has made headlines after stripping naked and jumping into an aquarium at a local Bass Pro Shop. The man, identified as George Owens, caused quite a stir when he executed a cannonball from the top floor of the store, landing in the giant aquarium in front of stunned shoppers.
According to police, the incident took place in Leeds, Alabama on Thursday evening, just before closing time. Witnesses captured footage of the man as he stood on the edge of the aquarium, completely nude, and yelling at officers who had arrived on the scene. He then proceeded to jump into the water, where he remained for approximately five minutes.
42 year old George Owens, of Sterrett, AL was at the Bass Pro in Leeds, AL. pic.twitter.com/9gxD7nAXdU
— GamER MD (@alexandertyler) January 7, 2024
One can only imagine the shock and horror of the unsuspecting shoppers who were witness to this strange and disturbing scene. Footage from multiple angles shows the man performing the stunt, his legs spread wide apart as he hangs onto the edge of the aquarium before leaping into the water.
Upon being apprehended, Owens continued to put up a fight, kicking one officer in the groin and causing damage to the back door of the police vehicle. He was eventually taken into custody and is now facing a slew of charges, including public lewdness, disorderly conduct, and assault on a police officer. He is currently undergoing psychiatric evaluation at a local hospital.
The incident reportedly began when Owens crashed his car into a pole in the store’s parking lot, and for reasons yet unknown, he decided to strip down and enter the outdoor retail store in the nude. In addition to causing damage and making lewd comments to officers, Owens also kicked in and damaged the door of the police vehicle.
The shocking and disturbing nature of this incident has left many wondering what could have possibly led to such bizarre behavior. Was it a mental break? A reckless cry for attention? Whatever the reason, it is clear that Owens’ actions have caused significant harm and disturbance to those involved, including the officers who had to apprehend him.
In a statement to the press, Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin expressed outrage over the incident, stating that Owens’ behavior was not only disruptive but also dangerous for both himself and others. It is a sad reminder of the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their loved ones. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this shocking and unsettling event.
Alabama man arrested after taking a dive into the fish aquarium at a Bass Pro Shop says he intentionally drove a vehicle into a pole outside the store before taking off his clothes and jumping in the fish tank.
When the police arrived, the man, George Owens, refused to get out… pic.twitter.com/8fmZbijNyc
— Grim (@intothegrim) January 7, 2024
As this story continues to unfold, one thing is certain – the images and videos of a man in his birthday suit leaping into an aquarium at a Bass Pro Shop will be seared into the minds of those who witnessed it for a long time to come. It serves as a stark reminder that even in the most ordinary of places, all it takes is one moment of madness to turn a seemingly routine day into a horrifying and unforgettable experience.