A 19-year-old lifeguard was killed and six others injured in a fatal lightning strike at a seaside park.
The bolt injured over half a dozen people on Monday afternoon during stormy weather with heavy downpours and frequent lightning reported.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy paid tribute to the teenager.
He said: "Our hearts are with the family and friends of the young lifeguard killed by today's horrific lightning strike on the beach in Berkeley Township, and we pray for a full recovery for those injured.
"I've spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time."
The strike happened in the area of 21st Avenue Beach in South Seaside Park. All of those injured were taken to the nearest hospital.
A line of storms moved through South Jersey on Monday evening, bringing frequent lightning, heavy downpours and gusty winds.
There has been no confirmation of the condition of the other six injured but they were aged between 15 and 56 according to local media. Some of their symptoms include headaches and dizziness.
This is the second young New Jersey lifeguard that has died in recent weeks.
On August 19, Norman Inferrera, a rookie lifeguard in Cape May, was rowing a lifeguard boat when a wave knocked him unconscious. He died at the hospital days after the accident.
