Tragic Lightning Strike Claims Life of Colorado Man on Honeymoon

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA - In a tragic incident that has left the community of New Smyrna Beach reeling, a 29-year-old man from Colorado was struck by lightning during what was supposed to be a joyful honeymoon. This unexpected calamity unfolded on Friday while he was standing in ankle-deep water near the 27th Avenue approach. Despite the urgent efforts of first responders, who performed CPR on the scene, the man sadly succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead the following day in the hospital. His name is yet to be released, and details surrounding his recent marriage remain unclear. Meanwhile, two other individuals, golfers playing at the nearby Venetian Bay Golf Course, were also struck indirectly by lightning that same day but did not require hospitalization, as reported by Click Orlando.

The lightning strike that took the young man’s life is particularly unusual, as it originated from a storm several miles away. Tammy Malphurs, the Beach Safety Director, expressed that while she has witnessed multiple lightning fatalities over her career, it has been a while since such a tragedy occurred on Volusia County beaches. She emphasized the crucial importance of seeking shelter when thunder is heard, urging beachgoers to find a building or a vehicle with a hard metal top and closed windows during storms.

Lightning Strikes: A Common Danger in Florida

Lightning poses a significant danger across the United States, especially in Florida, known as the „lightning capital“ of the U.S. According to the CDC, the southeastern states, particularly Florida, report over 2,000 lightning injuries in the past 50 years. The risks tend to peak during the summer months, especially in July. Sadly, engaging in outdoor recreational activities, such as fishing, golfing, or enjoying the beach, heightens the risk of lightning strikes. Recent statistics reveal that leisure activities account for nearly two-thirds of lightning fatalities, while work-related incidents, where males are predominantly affected, add to the alarming figures.

In fact, since 2006, there have been 444 lightning-related deaths in the United States, underscoring the significant threat this natural phenomenon poses. Males are four times more likely to suffer from lightning strikes, with the average age of victims hovering around 37 years. This stark reality was echoed by Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, who offered condolences to the victim’s family, highlighting the tragic nature of the young man’s death. Meanwhile, rain chances remain unpredictable, with forecasters warning of potential storms that may give rise to further lightning hazards.

As communities reflect on this unfortunate event, it serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of weather safety. Beach Safety Director Tammy Malphurs’s counsel rings particularly true: when storms approach, prioritize your safety by finding shelter—it’s a lesson we must all take to heart.