Kitakyushu teenager electrocuted at municipal gymnasium

A teenager was hospitalized after being electrocuted while tidying up a mobile basketball goal at the Kokuraminami Municipal Gymnasium in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture.

The accident occurred when the individual attempted to use an extension cord that was incompatible with the equipment. The electric basketball goal utilized a three-pin plug designed with a grounding pin for safety. However, the facility's designated manager reportedly provided a standard two-hole extension cord instead.

Because the plugs did not match, the connection was insecure, leaving metal components exposed. The teenager is believed to have touched these exposed parts, resulting in an electric shock. The victim was transported to a hospital and is expected to remain hospitalized for four to five days for observation. The facility management has pledged to improve safety protocols and ensure appropriate equipment is provided to prevent future incidents.