JACKSON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A devastating lightning strike at the Black Knight Bow Benders archery range in Jackson Township turned a routine summer outing into a heartbreaking tragedy on Wednesday evening, July 16.
The bolt of lightning struck shortly after 7:00 p.m., during an outdoor event on Perrineville Road, claiming the life of one man and injuring 14 others, including several children.
The victim has been identified as 61-year-old Robert Montgomery. Emergency responders at the scene immediately began CPR and lifesaving efforts, but Montgomery succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
Although authorities have not yet disclosed additional details about his involvement in the event, his death has deeply affected the local community. The injured included both adults and children, some as young as seven years old.
They were participating in a scheduled gathering hosted by Jackson Cub Scout Pack 204 — a group known for organizing youth-focused outdoor activities in the area. Witnesses said the day had been filled with excitement and learning, with archery practice being a highlight for the kids — until the sudden and unexpected storm changed everything.
The injuries ranged from minor to more serious, with several individuals reporting burns, disorientation, and flu-like symptoms. One person briefly lost consciousness but later regained it. Emergency medical personnel rushed to the site and treated many on scene, while others were transported to local hospitals for further evaluation and care.
Meteorologists confirmed that a severe thunderstorm warning was in effect at the time, though witnesses reported that there was no obvious sign of danger immediately before the strike — no rain, no thunder, and no visible lightning.
This underscores the often unpredictable and far-reaching danger posed by lightning. Experts emphasize that lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from a thunderstorm — even when skies appear clear.
“This was an isolated storm cell that moved in quickly,” said a local weather official. “It only takes one strike to cause tragedy. People often don’t realize just how far lightning can reach.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statement Thursday morning, expressing his sorrow over the incident. “Our hearts are broken for the Montgomery family and all those affected by this horrifying lightning strike,” he said. “We urge all New Jersey residents to keep the victims in their thoughts and prayers.”
The Black Knight Bow Benders facility, a well-regarded archery range often used by local scout troops and archery enthusiasts, is expected to remain closed until further notice as investigations continue and the community processes the traumatic event.
This incident marks the twelfth confirmed lightning-related fatality in the United States so far in 2025. Safety officials are once again reminding the public to heed all weather warnings and to seek shelter immediately at the first sign of storms — even if conditions appear deceptively calm.
As Jackson Township grieves the loss of Robert Montgomery, the community is rallying around the victims, offering support, prayers, and resources for those who experienced the unthinkable.
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