Naked Intruder Refuses to Leave Fort Lauderdale Pool for Four Hours in Bizarre Standoff
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — July 3, 2025 — A peaceful afternoon in a quiet Fort Lauderdale neighborhood turned into an hours-long spectacle Wednesday after a naked man broke into a backyard and refused to leave the homeowner’s swimming pool.
The bizarre incident unfolded around midday when Javier Cavero received an alarming text from his roommate.
“My roommate sends me a text message: ‘Hey, someone’s in the pool; I’m calling the police.’ I’m like okay – Then I start rushing over here,” Cavero told local media.
Police believe the man gained access to the property through an unlocked side gate. By the time officers arrived on the scene, the individual was floating calmly in the pool — completely unclothed — and apparently oblivious or indifferent to commands to exit the water.
What followed was a surreal standoff caught on video. Officers first attempted to coax the man out verbally. When that failed, they tried using a long pool skimmer to “hook” him closer to the pool’s edge. That, too, proved ineffective. Next came a garden hose, which police used to gently “lasso” the man and pull him toward the ledge.
“I’m just glad no one got injured and it was safe and hopefully he gets some help,” Cavero said after the man was finally removed.
After nearly four hours in the water, the man was ultimately detained without incident. Authorities invoked the Florida Mental Health Act, also known as the Baker Act, which allows individuals to be involuntarily examined and temporarily institutionalized if they are considered a threat to themselves or others. The man was taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
Neighbors described the scene as “surreal,” with many standing outside their homes watching the commotion unfold. Some noted that the individual appeared disoriented or possibly under the influence.
The incident has also raised concerns about security and mental health services in the area.
“It’s just strange and sad,” one neighbor said. “Clearly this person was not in their right mind.”
Police have not released the identity of the individual and said the investigation is ongoing. No charges have been filed as of Thursday morning.
The homeowner has since secured the property and thanked officers for their professionalism and restraint.
