JACKSON, N.J. — A 61-year-old man is dead and 14 others were injured after a lightning strike during an archery event in Ocean County on Wednesday evening, authorities said.
Emergency services were dispatched at approximately 7:13 p.m. to the Black Knights Bow Benders Archery Range on Perrineville Road, where multiple people were reported struck by lightning during an outdoor gathering.
Responding officers confirmed that CPR was being performed on one male victim upon arrival. Several others were being triaged at the scene. One victim was reportedly knocked unconscious but later regained consciousness.
Robert Montgomery, 61, of Cinnaminson Township, succumbed to his injuries from the strike. The other 14 victims reported various injuries, including burns, pain, and general illness related to the incident.
The event was organized by Jackson Cub Scout Pack 204 and included attendees ranging in age from 7 to 61. Victims were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center and CentraState Medical Center. One person was taken to the Livingston Burn Center for treatment of a severe burn.
Emergency response included personnel from Jackson, Toms River, Howell, Plumstead, Freehold, and Millstone Townships, along with Hatzolah of Central Jersey, paramedics from RWJBarnabas Health and Atlantic Health Systems, and fire support from Cassville Volunteer Fire Company and Fire District #2.