Malta’s Summer Carnival celebrations have been abruptly cancelled after artist Jean-Paul Bonett was electrocuted to death while working on a float.

Bonett, 45, colloquially known as ‘Chippy’, died after suffering an electric shock at a float warehouse in Triq il-Mollijiet, Marsa. His death stunned carnival communities who took to social media to express their condolences.

In a joint statement, the Culture Ministry and Festivals Malta described Bonett as one of the best artists in Malta’s carnival sector and expressed solidarity with his family and friends.

“All the Summer Carnival activities that were planned for this weekend won’t take place,” they said. “More information will be provided later on.”

Photo left: Sebio Aquilina; Photo right: Festivals Malta 

Rest in peace