(Hardyston, NJ) – Simon John Mariani, 28, of Franklin Lakes, died after being struck by lightning on July 8 while golfing in a tournament at Ballyowen Golf Course. The lightning hit during a sudden storm as he played the 15th hole. Despite CPR efforts and being airlifted to a hospital, Mariani passed away on July 14.
Witnesses, including an off-duty firefighter, responded quickly. However, some golfers say no warning sirens were heard before the strike—contradicting the course operator, which claims standard lightning protocols were followed.
Mariani, a Notre Dame graduate, is remembered for his warmth, creativity, and love of art and music. His death has sparked renewed concerns over storm safety and alert systems on golf courses.
Funeral services will be held this week in Franklin Lakes.
New Jersey has been dealing with severe storms and resulting flooding in recent days. In fact, a separate lightning strike killed one person and injured upward of a dozen — at an archery range in Jackson.
