by A 28-year-old golfer was struck by lightning while playing at a New Jersey course on Tuesday afternoon during an all-day golf competition. The incident occurred at Ballyowen Golf Course in Hamburg, raising concerns about weather safety protocols on the course.
The golfer, identified as Simon Mariani, was seriously injured and airlifted to the hospital.
Key details:
- Incident location: Ballyowen Golf Course, Hardyston Township, Hamburg, New Jersey
- Victim: Simon Mariani, 28, struck by lightning at the 15th hole
- Date/time: Tuesday, around 1:53 p.m.
- Witness: Brian Delia, another golfer, witnessed the strike and described fast-approaching storm clouds while at the 14th hole
- Weather conditions: No audible horn or siren alerts were reported prior to the strike, according to Delia
- Immediate response:
- Mariani’s father began performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
- Other golfers assisted with CPR
- Hardyston police responded to the 911 call and assisted until paramedics arrived
- Medical response: Mariani was transported to a nearby hospital via medevac helicopter
- Condition: His current condition remains unknown
The incident has highlighted the importance of strict weather protocols during outdoor events, particularly on open courses like golf courses where lightning poses a serious risk.
