Lightning kills lifeguard, injures several others at Jersey Shore
Lightning struck eight people at a New Jersey beach, killing a young lifeguard on Monday afternoon.
Police and other agencies responded to reports of lightning strikes in the South Seaside Park section of Berkeley Township, Ocean County, authorities said. Responders found four lifeguards and four beachgoers struck by lightning, Mayor Carmen Amato said.
"This is a tragic and heartbreaking day for our town and the entire Jersey Shore. This young person was out there every day protecting the lives of others," Amato said in a statement. "Our lifeguard teams, like so many along the shore, develop special connections with our community throughout the summer, which makes this loss even greater."
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Officials said the seven other victims were taken to hospitals to be treated for injuries not considered life-threatening.
In a statement, Gov. Phil Murphy offered his support.
"Our hearts are with the family and friends of the young lifeguard killed by today's horrific lightning strike on the beach in Berkeley Township, and we pray for a full recovery for those injured," Murphy said. "I've spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time."
Lightning struck and killed a lifeguard at a beach in Berkeley Township, N.J. (FOX 29)
The lightning strike happened on a beach on 21st Avenue in Berkeley Township, near the entrance to Island Beach State Park.
The township's beaches will remain closed through Thursday, the mayor said. Crisis counselors will be on hand to help beach staff and lifeguards.
"On behalf of myself and our entire community, I offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of this young man," Amato said.
With The Associated Press.
A screen capture from radar showing a thunderstorm moving over the Barnegat Peninsula in New Jersey on Monday afternoon, Aug. 30, 2021.