A tragic lightning strike hit a New Jersey archery range Wednesday evening, killing one man and injuring more than a dozen others during a sudden round of storms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The incident occurred just after 7 p.m. at the Black Knight Bowbenders range in Jackson Township, where a group of people\u2014some participating in a scouting event\u2014were gathered outdoors. According to local authorities, a powerful bolt of lightning struck the area, throwing multiple people to the ground and prompting an urgent emergency response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Robert Montgomery, a 61-year-old volunteer instructor, died at the scene despite resuscitation efforts. Emergency personnel performed CPR but were unable to revive him. Thirteen others, ranging in age from 7 to 61, were treated for various injuries, including minor burns and shock symptoms. One person temporarily lost consciousness but later recovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Several victims were transported to nearby hospitals, including Jersey Shore University Medical Center and the burn center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Witnesses described a terrifying moment when the lightning struck. One volunteer recalled the explosion of dirt and debris, saying people were “laid out flat” after the blast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among those present were members of Cub Scouts, who were attending a scheduled event at the range. Authorities confirmed that none of the children sustained serious injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a statement, Mayor Michael Reina called it a \u201cterrible and heartbreaking situation\u201d and praised first responders for their quick action. Governor Phil Murphy also extended condolences and urged prayers for the victims and their families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The National Weather Service had issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the area shortly before the strike. The event marks one of the latest in a series of deadly lightning incidents across the U.S. this year, bringing the national total to 12 lightning-related deaths so far in 2025.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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