A man who was struck by lightning while playing golf in New Jersey last week has died, according to family.
Simon Mariani was competing in an all-day Iron Man competition at Hamburg’s Ballyowen Golf Course on July 8, when a fast-moving storm swept through the area. He was struck by a bolt of lightning while he played the 15th hole, prompting the other golfers to spring into action.
His father, whom he had been playing with, administered mouth-to-mouth while others provided him CPR, fellow golfer Brian Delia told WABC.
Mariani was then rushed by medevac to an area hospital, where he “unexpectedly” died from his injuries on Monday, according to an obituary released by his loved ones. He was 28 years old.
“Simon embraced all things family and enjoyed painting, photography and baking,” his obituary said. “He also loved the outdoors, including the beach, boating, fishing, hiking, golfing and skiing.”
Crystal Springs Resort, which operates the golf course, in a statement to WPVI said weather conditions rapidly deteriorated the day of the deadly lightning strike. It also noted that personnel sounded warning alarms in a bid to clear the course.
“The safety of our guests is one of our top priorities,” said spokesperson. Michelle Abate “Our primary concern right now is the well-being of the guest and his family.”
Delia said he did not hear any alarm, but he did record the dark clouds as they rolled in and covered the sky.
“I started filming, and he was right in front of me, and all of a sudden the lightning strikes,” he told WABC. “I ended the video recording and we immediately just started heading back to the clubhouse.”
Delia added it was only then that the alarms sounded. At that point, he noted, first responders were already on the scene.
Mariani’s funeral is scheduled for Thursday.
