Man Dies of Lightning Strike on Honeymoon
A terrifying scene unfolded over the weekend when a 29-year-old tourist on his honeymoon in Florida was struck by lightning while enjoying the scene at a local beach.
According to multiple reports, the victim has been identified as Jake Rosencranz, who is from Colorado. Reports say Rosencranz was in ankle-deep water at New Smyrna Beach on Friday when he was struck by lightning.
Rosencranz was immediately administered life-saving measures such as CPR before he was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Tragically, Rosencranz died the following morning.
A county official confirmed the death on Monday. That official also shared that the storm was miles away from the beach when Rosencranz took a dip in the ocean and blue skies above him. Because the storm was miles away from the beach, a lightning strike didn't seem like a threat. But the extremely rare occurrence played out.
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At this moment, no word yet on Rosencranz's new wife, Leah, and whether she witnessed the horrifying moment. The couple was reportedly in Florida on a delayed honeymoon.
A GoFundMe has been created to help offset funeral costs.
"This devastating loss impacts so many loved ones, but especially Leah who will be navigating life without her husband and best friend," the fundraiser campaign read. "During this difficult time, we are looking to financially support Leah as she deals with medical bills and other implications in the wake of the loss of Jake."
According to The Guardian, Florida in 2024 led the country in lightning fatalities (12) and strikes per square mile (76).
County officials also shared that two other people were struck by lightning on a nearby golf course that same day, though neither, miraculously, required a hospital visit.