Florham Park, New Jersey, August 20, 2025
News Summary
A calm afternoon at Pinch Brook Golf Course was disrupted when a 36-year-old man suffered a lightning strike during a thunderstorm. Immediate aid from fellow golfers and first responders was crucial in saving his life. This incident highlights the dangers of lightning on golf courses, especially following a recent fatal incident at another local course. With proper precautions, golfers can mitigate the risks associated with sudden thunderstorms.
Florham Park, New Jersey — Golf Round Turns Dire After Lightning Strike
A calm late-afternoon round at Pinch Brook Golf Course in Florham Park turned into a medical emergency on the evening of August 17 when a 36-year-old man was struck by lightning just after 6:00 p.m. The strike happened during thunderstorms in the area, reportedly between the 2nd and 16th holes, sending shock through players and staff on the course.
Fast-moving storm, faster response
According to first responders, the golfer lost consciousness, stopped breathing and went into cardiac arrest. Fellow golfers and bystanders sprang into action. Among them was a retired captain from the Morris County Sheriff’s office who helped lead CPR efforts until emergency medical teams arrived. The quick work of both trained responders and civilians was later highlighted by local police as critical to getting the man care quickly.
From the course to the hospital
The injured golfer was first taken to a nearby hospital and then transferred to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston for further treatment. At the time of initial reports, his condition was described as critical and not immediately clear, with hospital staff continuing to monitor and treat his injuries.
This was not an isolated incident
The Florham Park strike came just weeks after a tragic lightning incident on July 8 at another area course. A 28-year-old golfer at Ballyowen Golf Club in Hardyston was struck during severe storms and later died from his injuries after being hospitalized. That event was captured on video by another golfer and prompted questions about how quickly warnings were issued as the storm developed.
Earlier in July, a separate lightning event at an archery range in Jackson Township killed a 61-year-old man and injured several others, including children. These back-to-back incidents serve as an unsettling reminder that lightning can be unpredictable and deadly, even when a storm seems to appear suddenly.
Context and national numbers
Lightning deaths remain unusual but tragic. By mid-August 2025, a national safety group reported a total of 12 lightning deaths in the United States for the year so far. For perspective, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the odds of being struck by lightning in any given year are less than 1 in a million, and the country averages about 27 lightning fatalities a year.
Why golfers are at risk (and what they can do)
Golf courses are wide-open places with isolated trees, tall flagpoles and metal clubs — all items that can attract lightning. Golfers often stay out to finish a hole, underestimate how quickly a storm can strengthen, or delay seeking shelter. The recent incidents show how dangerous that choice can be.
Practical steps for players: watch the sky, check weather alerts before teeing off, and head to a sturdy building or fully enclosed vehicle at the first sign of thunder. Lightning can strike even if the sun is shining or a storm seems far away, so erring on the safe side is the best strategy.
What happened during the rescue
Bystander CPR and fast EMS care made a real difference in the Florham Park case. Local police praised the combined effort of civilians and professionals who worked together to care for the man until he could be moved to the hospital. These events highlight how critical immediate action and basic life-saving skills can be in the minutes after a strike.
For golf course operators and players
Course managers and tournament organizers should keep close tabs on weather forecasts and have clear evacuation plans. Golfers should respect course suspensions and warning signals — it’s not just about delaying a round; it’s about preserving life. The recent string of incidents in the region should be a wake-up call for players and officials alike.
FAQ — Quick Answers Golfers Need Right Now
Is lightning on a golf course common?
Lightning strikes on golf courses are rare but more likely than in many other settings because of open spaces, metal clubs and occasional tall objects. Weather conditions, location and timing all play a role.
What should I do if lightning starts while I’m on the course?
Immediately stop play and seek shelter in a fully enclosed building or a hard-top vehicle. Avoid open spaces, lone trees, flagpoles and metal objects. Do not wait for heavy rain; thunder is a sign to get to safety.
How can I tell if someone has been struck by lightning?
Signs include collapse, no breathing, no pulse, burns or confusion. If you suspect a strike, call emergency services right away and begin CPR if the person is not breathing and you are trained to do so.
Can someone be safely revived after a lightning strike?
Yes. Many victims can be revived with prompt CPR and advanced medical care, but outcomes vary based on how quickly help arrives and the severity of the strike.
How fast can a storm develop?
Storms can build very quickly. A clear or partly cloudy sky can turn into dangerous conditions within minutes. That’s why monitoring forecasts and responding to changes in the sky is so important.
Quick Reference Table — Lightning Safety for Golfers
| Situation | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| See lightning or hear thunder | Stop play and head to shelter immediately | Thunder means lightning is close enough to be dangerous |
| In open fairway with no shelter | Get to a car with windows up; avoid touching metal | Vehicles with hard tops are safer than staying exposed |
| Someone struck by lightning | Call emergency services and begin CPR if needed | Immediate care can save lives; lightning victims may need resuscitation |
| Clubhouse policies | Follow course warnings and staff instructions | Organizers are responsible for safety protocols and timely suspensions |
| Before your round | Check weather apps and lightning alerts | Advance planning reduces the chance of being caught off guard |
For golfers, the message is simple: a round is never worth risking your life. Watch the sky, respect warnings and treat thunderstorms seriously. The recent string of strikes in the region is a blunt reminder that lightning can change a quiet afternoon on the links into a life-or-death emergency in minutes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
August 20: A Date of Significance for Golfers and History Lovers
Golfer in Critical Condition After Lightning Strike at Florham Park
Golfer in Critical Condition After Lightning Strike at Pinch Brook
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for New England
Boston Weather Forecast: Variable Conditions Ahead
Additional Resources
- ABC7 New York
- Wikipedia: Lightning Safety
- NBC New York
- Google Search: Lightning Safety for Golfers
- CBS News New York
- Google Scholar: Lightning Strikes Golf Courses
- New York Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
- NJ101.5
- Google News: Golfer Injured by Lightning
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
