“A newlywed, Jake Rosencranz, tragically dies in a lightning strike while on his honeymoon in Florida. Read the heartbreaking story of his life, love, and sudden loss.”
What was supposed to be a joyous honeymoon for Jake Rosencranz and his wife, Leah, turned into an unimaginable tragedy after Jake was struck by lightning during a beach outing in Florida.
A Love Story Cut Short
Jake and Leah had been together for years, building a beautiful life full of love, laughter, and adventures. After tying the knot in July 2023 at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area in Colorado, they were finally taking their long-awaited honeymoon in Florida. But what was supposed to be a dream vacation turned into a nightmare.
The Tragic Incident
On June 21, 2025, Jake became Florida’s first lightning-related fatality of the year when a freak lightning strike hit him while he was standing in ankle-deep water at New Smyrna Beach, just south of Daytona. The weather appeared calm at first, but a storm was brewing miles inland, heading toward the coast.
Around 12:30 p.m., as the storm approached, more than 170 lightning strikes were recorded in the area, with one tragically striking Jake. He was rushed to the hospital but, despite immediate CPR and life-saving efforts by lifeguards, Jake passed away the following day, surrounded by his loved ones.
A Bright Life Remembered
Jake was described as a “true Coloradan,” although he was originally from Weston, Massachusetts. He met Leah in high school and they quickly became inseparable. Together with their dog Bonnie, they embraced an adventurous life in Colorado, where they enjoyed skiing, hiking, and spending time in the great outdoors.
Their honeymoon in Florida was meant to be a celebration of their love, but instead, it became a heart-wrenching farewell to a young man with so much life left to live.
A Community Comes Together
In the wake of Jake’s tragic passing, tributes poured in from friends, family, and community members. Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood expressed his condolences, stating the sorrow that many felt for the young couple. Jake’s brother-in-law, David Curtis, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Leah in this difficult time, aiming to cover medical expenses and help her navigate life without her beloved husband.
The Impact of Lightning Strikes
This tragic event highlights the rare but real danger of lightning strikes. According to the CDC, the odds of being struck by lightning in the U.S. are less than one in a million, making Jake’s death an incredibly rare and heartbreaking occurrence. On the same day, two others were also struck indirectly by lightning while golfing at Venetian Bay Golf Course, though their conditions remain unknown.
Remembering Jake
Jake’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of everyone who knew him. His story, one that began in joy and love, now serves as a reminder of how unpredictable and fragile life can be.
