A lightning strike at an outdoor archery range in Jackson Township, New Jersey, resulted in one fatality and left 13 others injured on Wednesday evening. The incident occurred shortly after 7 p.m. at the Black Knight Bow Benders, located on the 600 block of Perrineville Road.

According to the Jackson Township Police Department, a 61-year-old man died from his injuries. Emergency responders arrived to find a male victim receiving CPR, while other individuals were being treated for various injuries. The injuries reported ranged from burns to general complaints of not feeling well.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed his condolences, stating, "Please pray for everyone involved in this tragic incident." The victims, aged between 7 and 61 years old, were transported to local hospitals for further treatment.

Witnesses reported that a severe thunderstorm warning had been issued for the area on Wednesday evening. The storm was expected to bring heavy rainfall, following a previous deluge earlier in the week. Jackson Township Mayor Michael Reina expressed his sorrow over the loss of life and praised the quick actions of emergency responders, noting that at least one victim was revived through CPR.

The police have not confirmed whether the victims were aware of the approaching storm or if they attempted to seek shelter. The incident prompted a response from nearly a dozen emergency agencies due to the scale of the situation.

This tragic event marks at least the twelfth lightning-related fatality in the United States this year, according to preliminary data from the National Lightning Safety Council. The council highlights that many lightning deaths occur during outdoor activities, particularly fishing, which remains one of the most hazardous pursuits during thunderstorms.

As the investigation continues, Jackson Township Police Chief Matthew Kunz stated that more information will be provided as it becomes available.