Golfer suffers serious injury after lightning strike in New Jersey
- A golfer, Simon Mariani, was struck by lightning while playing on the 15th hole of Ballyowen Golf Course in Hardyston, New Jersey.
- Witnesses reported that most players did not receive any warning about the danger of lightning strikes before the incident occurred.
- This event highlights the critical importance of safety protocols on golf courses during severe weather.
In Hardyston, New Jersey, an alarming incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when Simon Mariani, a 28-year-old golfer, was struck by lightning while playing at the Ballyowen Golf Course, specifically at the 15th hole. The event transpired just before 2 p.m., during an Iron Man golf competition that was taking place. Other golfers, including Brian Delia, observed stormy conditions and lightning in the distance, prompting concerns for safety. Delia, who was on the 14th hole, noticed the worsening weather and decided to return to the clubhouse for safety, capturing footage of the stormy skies as he did. Despite their precautions, most players, including Mariani, remained on the course until the lightning strike took place. Delia recounted the moments leading to the incident, explaining that he had been aware of the developing storm for about half an hour. He and his fellow golfers had not heard any warning horns or sirens that might have indicated players should leave the course. In a tragic turn of events, following the lightning strike, Mariani's father attempted mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while other golfers offered CPR until emergency services arrived. Police were notified at approximately 1:53 p.m., and they provided care until paramedics could take Mariani to a hospital via medevac helicopter. The status of his injuries remains unclear. Responding officers emphasized the need for better safety measures on golf courses during inclement weather, especially in light of this incident. After the lightning strike, Crystal Springs Resort, which manages the golf course, confirmed that a guest had been injured due to an apparent lightning strike and stated that course personnel had been monitoring the situation and sounded warning alarms as soon as they could. The resort indicated that guest safety is a primary concern. Further inquiries underscore that this incident has raised awareness about the dangers associated with golfing during thunderstorms, highlighting the importance of timely communication and alerts for players on the course. While the day had begun with favorable weather, the rapid change left many golfers unprepared for the dangerous conditions that unfolded. Mariani's serious injury serves as a sobering reminder of the nature of weather events and the need for caution when engaging in outdoor activities during storms.