A lightning strike killed a teenage lifeguard and wounded seven other people, including three other lifeguards, at the Jersey Shore, according to police.
Berkeley Township Police Department said officers responded to reports of injuries on Monday at 21st Ave. Beach in South Seaside Park.
“It was determined that a total of 8 victims, four of which were lifeguards, were reported to have been either struck or were injured from the residual lightning strike,” the department said in a statement on Facebook. “One of the victims, a Berkeley Township lifeguard, succumbed to their injuries. The remaining victims were triaged and treated for their injuries at surrounding hospitals.”
MAN DIES AFTER HE AND WIFE ARE STRUCK BY LIGHTNING DURING FAMILY VACATION IN FLORIDA
The killed lifeguard was identified as 19-year-old Keith Pinto.
“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 tweeted of the incident. “I’ve spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time.”
I’ve spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) August 30, 2021
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A GoFundMe page has been started to help Pinto’s family with the funeral arrangements.
There have been a total of nine lightning fatalities this year in the United States.
