A tragic event unfolded in New Jersey when lightning struck an outdoor archery range, resulting in the death of an instructor and injuries to 13 others. This incident happened Wednesday night at the Black Night Bowbender Archery Club in Jackson Township, just after 7 PM.
The 61-year-old victim succumbed to his injuries, while those injured included a variety of wounds, with some suffering from burns, as reported by local news sources. He was a volunteer instructor for the nonprofit Archery Mountains, teaching a scout group at the time of the lightning strike.
Eyewitnesses recounted the shocking scene—a number of young archers were nearby when lightning suddenly hit. It’s just overwhelming, really, to think about that moment uncontrollably interrupting their activity.
According to the Archery Club, up to four children sustained injuries as a result of this unfortunate episode. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office noted that one individual was briefly unconscious after the strike but regained consciousness and received on-site medical attention.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy reacted to this rare and deadly occurrence, stating, “This lightning strike at Jackson’s outdoor archery area has resulted in at least one death and multiple injuries.” He expressed his condolences, urging people to pray for those involved in this tragic event.
On the same evening, New Jersey was under flash flood and thunderstorm warnings, prompting officials to advise residents to stay inside and exercise caution.
Disturbingly, this marks the second lightning-related death in New Jersey within the week. Earlier, a 28-year-old golfer, Simon John Mariani, lost his life after being struck while on the 15th hole at Ballyowen Golf Course.
