A lightning strike in New Jersey beach has taken the life of 1 lifeguard and injures 7 others Monday afternoon.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy confirmed the death and released a statement saying, “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.”
The Berkeley Township Police Department reports that four lifeguards and four other beachgoers were struck by lightning. One of the lifeguards died.
“This young person was out there every day protecting the lives of others. Our lifeguard teams, like so many along the shore, develop special connections with our community throughout the summer, which makes this loss even greater” said Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato.
Police say that the other victims were transported to nearby hospitals but no immediate updates of their conditions.
The lifeguard has not been identified.
