A 41-year-old Saratoga Springs man died after being struck by lightning while jet-skiing near Fort De Soto, Florida, on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Steve Matheson, a father of four, was reportedly assisting a boater in need when the strike occurred, according to family members.
Details of the Fatal Strike
The incident occurred around 6:35 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Deputies responded to the area shortly after 6:30 p.m. following reports that a man on a jet ski had been struck by lightning, the sheriff's office said.
Matheson was transported to a local hospital for treatment but was later pronounced dead, authorities reported. As Fox13 News first reported, the sheriff's office identified the victim as Matheson following the incident in Tierra Verde, Florida.
A Final Act of Assistance
Matheson had traveled to Florida for a work conference and had decided to stay an extra day to spend time with a friend, David Cole, according to his cousin, Marianne Matheson Shuman. The two had checked weather radar in the morning and again immediately before entering the water and felt it was safe to go out, Shuman told ABC News.
While on the water, the pair observed a storm moving in and began heading back toward the shore. However, they paused their return to assist a boater who required help, Shuman said. It was following this act of assistance that Matheson was struck by lightning.
Legacy of a Dedicated Father
Matheson is remembered by his family as a dedicated parent who was deeply involved in the lives of his children. He is survived by his wife, Abbie, and four children, aged 9, 7, 4, and 3, Shuman said.
Shuman described Matheson as a man who "loved big" and was a "very hands-on dad" who would prioritize his family above all else. "He was the dad that gave up everything and would go throw a ball out in the backyard," Shuman told ABC News. His oldest son reportedly asked, "Who am I gonna throw the ball with now?"
"He leaves a mark with everybody... he's gonna be very missed," Shuman said, noting that Matheson was known for helping strangers.
Lightning Safety and Risks
The fatality highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding Florida's weather patterns. According to Fox13 News, Florida frequently ranks among the top 10 states in the U.S. for lightning-related fatalities.
Meteorologist Nash Rhodes noted that lightning typically travels toward the tallest object in an area. He explained that if a person is in a boat over a body of water, they are likely one of the tallest objects present. Rhodes also cautioned that electricity from lightning can travel through both water and metal, making being in or near water a significant risk during a storm.
"If you can hear the thunder, it's time to go inside or to a safe area because that means you are close enough to be struck by lightning," Rhodes said. He added that lightning strikes can occur miles away from the parent thunderstorm and can be just as dangerous as strikes occurring directly beneath the storm.
Community Safety Reminders
Local residents and recreational users emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety over activities. A fisherman, Kayden Enders, told Fox13 News, "I'd say just don't take risks. Your life is important."
Another jet skier, Brady Harrington, noted the necessity of having a plan when navigating storm seasons. "You see the lightning coming. It's not worth doing the extra 30 minutes for this type of safety," Harrington said, adding that it is vital to set a good example, especially when children are present.
