A Utah man killed by a lightning strike while jet skiing off the coast of Florida is being remembered by his family through a community fundraiser established to manage funeral costs and travel expenses. Steve Matheson, a husband and father, died on Saturday, Aug. 29, during a sudden storm while riding near Egmont Key.
Tragic Accident Near Egmont Key
The sudden death of Matheson occurred while he was visiting Florida for a conference. According to Fox13 News, Matheson was riding a jet ski alongside his childhood best friend, David Cole, when the weather transitioned instantly from sunny to stormy.
As Fox13 News reported, the two men attempted to return to shore to avoid the approaching storm. After reaching Shell Key, Matheson expressed a desire to continue the trip despite the weather, telling Cole, "Let's just try to beat the storm."
While riding approximately 15 to 20 yards ahead of Cole, Matheson was struck directly by a bolt of lightning. Cole, who witnessed the event, described seeing a large lightning bolt descend from the sky, hitting the water and Matheson simultaneously. Cole noted that Matheson remained upright on the jet ski for approximately three seconds after the strike before falling face-first into the water.
A Lifelong Friendship Cut Short
Following the strike, Cole remained with Matheson in the water and successfully flagged down a passing boat captain and his wife for assistance.
Cole, who has been friends with Matheson since they were four years old, expressed deep grief over the loss of his lifelong friend. He noted that the pair had played sports together throughout their lives, including during Matheson's time playing football at Brigham Young University.
"I just thought nothing would ever happen to him, but something happened to him, and I wish we would have done things different," Cole said, according to Fox13 News. Cole added that while their intentions were simply to reach safety, the outcome was devastating for the family, noting that Matheson's children did not know of his passing until the following morning.
Community Rallies to Support Family
A fundraiser organized by April Beck for Abbie Matheson has been established to support the family during their mourning. As of Aug. 30, 2026, the GoFundMe campaign had raised $115,327 toward a $200,000 goal, receiving 895 donations.
The family is utilizing the funds to cover the costs of bringing Matheson's body back to Utah, as well as funeral expenses and other financial challenges arising from the sudden loss.
The Matheson family described Steve as a devoted husband and a loving father who cherished his wife, Abbie, and their four children. According to the fundraiser organizer, Matheson's family was his greatest joy and the center of his world.
A Legacy of Faith and Family
In addition to his devotion to his family, Matheson was known for his love of football, particularly BYU football.
The Matheson family also noted that his faith was a defining characteristic of his life. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Matheson maintained a strong and unwavering faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ, which influenced how he lived and treated others.
Supporting the Matheson Family
As the community continues to support the Matheson family, supporters are being asked to contribute financially or share the fundraiser to help ease the burden of unexpected expenses.
For those unable to donate, the family requested prayers for Abbie Matheson and their children as they navigate life without Steve.
The tragedy highlights the unpredictable nature of coastal weather, as the transition from clear skies to a lightning storm occurred in an instant during the excursion.
