US Tourist Electrocuted in Mexico Hot Tub Days Before College Graduation, Remembered as 'Heart of Gold'
In a tragic turn of events, Jorge Guillen, a promising student from the United States, was electrocuted while relaxing in a hot tub at the Sonoran Sea Resort in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. Just days before his college graduation, Guillen's life was abruptly cut short, leaving his family and friends in shock and mourning (nypost, fox).
Guillen was a student at Western Technical College, where he was studying refrigeration and HVAC. He was set to graduate on the Friday following the incident. The excitement of his impending graduation turned to sorrow as the news of his untimely death spread. Western Technical College held a moment of silence in honor of Guillen during their graduation ceremony, a poignant tribute to a hardworking and kind-hearted student (nypost, fox). "He had a heart of gold," one of his instructors remarked, echoing the sentiments of many who knew him.
Guillen's wife, Lizette Zambrano, also suffered life-threatening injuries from the same incident and was rushed to a hospital in the United States for treatment. Lizette, a former teacher who worked for an El Paso school system, is currently battling severe injuries as she fights for her life. The couple’s ordeal has deeply impacted their communities (nypost, fox).
In the wake of this tragic event, a GoFundMe page was set up to assist the grieving family. The campaign has raised nearly $40,000, demonstrating the community's support and solidarity during this difficult time (nypost, fox).
Video footage shared on social media captured the chaotic moments after the incident, showing bystanders around the hot tub trying to assist the couple. A witness familiar with the couple made a brave attempt to help but was shocked upon entering the hot tub, adding to the incident's harrowing nature (nypost, fox).
The General Prosecutor’s Office for the State of Sonora is investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the electrical fault. Jim Ringquist, Sales Director of Sonoran Sea Resort, expressed that the company is devastated by the tragedy but noted that the resort does not manage the condos once they are built, highlighting potential gaps in maintenance or oversight (nypost).
The sudden loss of Jorge Guillen has left a void in the hearts of those who loved him. Remembered for his generosity and warmth, Guillen's legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on supporting Lizette Zambrano’s recovery and comprehending how such a tragedy could have occurred.
Jorge Guillen’s promising life was tragically cut short, leaving behind memories of a compassionate and diligent student and partner. As the community rallies around his grieving family, the emotional toll is evident, yet the collective memory of his "heart of gold" provides a bittersweet comfort (nypost, fox).