A devastating incident at New Smyrna Beach has left a community in mourning and highlighted the unpredictable dangers of Florida’s weather. On Friday, June 20, 2025, a 29-year-old man from Colorado, Jake A. Rosencranz, was struck by lightning while standing in ankle-deep water on the shore. He was on his honeymoon with his wife, celebrating their recent marriage, when tragedy struck. Despite immediate CPR and rapid transport to the hospital, Rosencranz succumbed to his injuries the following day, marking the first lightning-related fatality in Florida for 2025.
The lightning strike occurred near the 27th Avenue approach on New Smyrna Beach. Witnesses described the storm as still miles away, with clear blue skies visible at the time of impact—an extremely rare occurrence according to local officials. The incident underscores the hidden risks of beach outings, even when storms seem distant. Volusia County Beach Safety Director Tammy Malphurs emphasized that lightning can strike unexpectedly, even from storms that appear far off.
First responders, including lifeguards and EMS teams, rushed to the scene and performed life-saving measures. Photos and video from the area show beachgoers and rescue personnel gathering around the victim in a desperate attempt to help. Rosencranz was taken to a local hospital in critical condition, but medical staff were unable to save him. His death has sent shockwaves through the local community and among tourists visiting the popular beach town.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood expressed deep condolences to the young widow, noting that the couple had chosen New Smyrna Beach for a delayed honeymoon. “At 29 years old, he should have had many more anniversaries with her for years to come,” Chitwood said. The sheriff also thanked the first responders for their swift actions and dedication.
Key Points Summary
- Victim: Jake A. Rosencranz, 29, from Colorado
- Incident: Struck by lightning while standing in ankle-deep water at New Smyrna Beach
- Date: June 20, 2025
- Location: Near 27th Avenue approach, New Smyrna Beach, Florida
- Context: On honeymoon with his wife; first lightning death in Florida for 2025
- Response: Immediate CPR and hospital transport, but victim died the next day
- Other incidents: Two golfers at Venetian Bay Golf Course were indirectly struck but did not require hospitalization
New Smyrna Beach: A Hazardous Paradise
New Smyrna Beach is renowned for its scenic coastline, vibrant surf culture, and welcoming community. However, it also sits in a region known as the “lightning capital of the United States.” Florida experiences more than 1.2 million lightning strikes each year, with Volusia County among the most affected areas. While the odds of being struck by lightning are less than one in a million, the sheer volume of storms means that vigilance is always necessary.
Malphurs, who has worked with Volusia Beach Safety for many years, has witnessed several lightning-related fatalities on the county’s beaches. She noted that while such incidents are rare, they serve as a stark reminder of nature’s power. “We see them, and a lot of times they move in really fast. A lot of times they’re miles away and you’ll see a random bolt of lightning,” she said.
The Friday storm that claimed Rosencranz’s life also affected others in New Smyrna Beach. Around the same time, two golfers at the Venetian Bay Golf Course were indirectly struck by lightning. Both were evaluated at the scene and did not require hospital transport, but the incident further highlighted how quickly conditions can change during Florida’s summer storms.
Safety Measures and Community Response
In the wake of this tragedy, local authorities have renewed calls for beachgoers to take storm warnings seriously. Malphurs stressed the importance of seeking shelter immediately when lightning is detected, even if the storm seems distant. “If you can hear thunder, you’re close enough to be struck by lightning, even if the sky looks clear,” said Ava Hanner, public information officer for the City of New Smyrna Beach.
Beach safety officials are urging visitors to heed lifeguard warnings and to avoid open areas, tall objects, and metal structures during storms. Sheds, pavilions, and tents do not provide adequate protection. The safest shelter is a building or a vehicle with a hard metal roof and closed windows.
The New Smyrna Beach community has rallied around the victim’s family, offering condolences and support. Social media posts from local officials and residents reflect a shared sense of grief and solidarity. The tragedy has also sparked conversations about storm preparedness and the need for increased awareness among tourists unfamiliar with Florida’s unique weather patterns.
Looking Forward: Lessons and Remembrance
As summer storms continue to roll across Central Florida, the story of Jake Rosencranz serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of weather awareness. New Smyrna Beach remains a beloved destination, but the risks associated with its climate cannot be ignored. Officials are planning to enhance safety messaging and increase the visibility of storm warnings for both locals and visitors.
The incident has also drawn attention to the broader issue of lightning safety in the United States. According to the National Weather Service, there have been at least three lightning-related deaths in 2025 so far, in North Carolina, Mississippi, and Texas. Florida’s unique position as the lightning capital makes it a focal point for ongoing safety initiatives.
For those planning a trip to New Smyrna Beach, the message is clear: enjoy the sun and surf, but always stay alert to changing weather conditions. The community’s resilience and compassion in the face of tragedy demonstrate the true spirit of this coastal town.
If you are heading to New Smyrna Beach this summer, take a moment to review lightning safety tips and always check local weather updates before heading out. Share this story with friends and family to help raise awareness and prevent future tragedies.