A Mississippi father has died after being struck by a bullet at a water park in what authorities are calling a "tragic accident."
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Jacob Nitkiewicz, 31, suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head during the incident at Flint Creek Water Park near Wiggins on Saturday.
Mississippi Shooting Investigation Underway After Fatal Incident
According to the Wiggins Police Department, officers responded to reports of a gunshot victim around 1:21AM.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but Nitkiewicz was pronounced dead at the location.
Wayne Flurry, a coroner for Stone County, described the shooting as a "tragic accident."
Authorities have not yet confirmed who fired the fatal shot or exactly how the incident unfolded.
"At this time, investigators believe this to be an isolated incident," police said in a statement. "The Wiggins Police Department wants to assure the community that Flint Creek Water Park remains safe and that there is no threat to the public or park visitors."
Officials added that the investigation remains ongoing and that "additional information" could be released later.
Family Remembers Devoted Husband and Father
According to his obituary, Nitkiewicz is survived by his wife of four months, Mackenzi Nitkiewicz, and their daughter, Emersyn.
The obituary also states that Nitkiewicz's brother-in-law, Blake Moss, died on the same day.
"Jacob was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family," the obituary reads. "He was devoted to his wife, Mackenzi, his soulmate since their teenage years, and their daughter, Emersyn Grace."
"Jacob was a present, steady husband and father who prioritized time together and created meaningful memories that will be cherished for years to come."
A GoFundMe campaign has since been launched to help support the family with "living expenses, bills, and everyday needs."
"There are no words that can fully capture this loss," the fundraiser states. "In an instant, everything changed."
More than $6,000 has already been raised toward a $20,000 goal.
A visitation is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, from 1PM to 3PM at Riemann Family Funeral Home, with the funeral service set to follow at 3PM in the chapel.
