Berkeley: OCSN has learned that the victim from yesterday’s lightning bolt strike was 19 year old Keith Pinto. “This young person was out there every day protecting the lives of others. Our lifeguard teams, like so many along the shore, develop special connections with our community throughout the summer, which makes this loss even greater,” said Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato. Yesterday at 4:35 crews from as far as Silverton responded to the beach. A landing zone that was later canceled was set up at the J Street Marina.

19 Year Old Keith Pinto Who Was Tragically Killed After Yesterday’s Lightning Strike

The 7 others who were injured as a result of the strike have injuries that are not considered to be life threatening. The youngest victims are 15, and 16 years old.

Press Release from the Berkeley Police Department
A note and flowers were left at the lifeguard stand. The note said “We were at the beach today and are grateful for what you’ve done for us by keeping us safe at the beach, We are so sorry for your loss.”
A rainbow appeared over the beach where 19 year old Keith Pinto was tragically killed, and 7 others were injured.