A lifeguard was killed while seven others were injured after lightning struck a beach in Ocean County, New Jersey.
The lightning strike occurred in the South Seaside Park section of Berkeley Township as a cluster of storms moved over the area late Monday afternoon.
Vince Ruffolo said he was relaxing with friends on the sand not far from the aluminum life guard stand near 21st Avenue when he felt a jolt and was then moved off his feet.
"Picture an explosion and an explosion happens all of a sudden, without giving you any warning," Ruffolo said. "Next thing you know you're on the ground and then you have an odor like burning hair. So it was very, very dramatic for us."
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A lifeguard, who has not yet been identified, was killed by the lightning strike. A second lifeguard as well as six beachgoers, including a 51-year-old man, 50-year-old woman and 19-year-old man, were all injured, according to law enforcement sources. The seven survivors were taken to the hospital for treatment after suffering headaches, dizziness and hearing issues.
“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," New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. "I’ve spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time.”
Monday's incident is the ninth confirmed lightning fatality in the U.S. this year, according to the National Lightning Safety Council. The last lightning death was on Aug. 24 in Wisconsin.
The last lightning death in New Jersey occurred on June 9 at a golf course in Burlington County.
