Georgia teen struck by lightning while on vacation in Florida has died, family says

Walker Bethune, the 17-year-old who was struck by lightning while vacationing in Florida, has died.

The teen’s school shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook Wednesday night.

Yesterday afternoon, rising Stratford senior Walker Bethune was involved in a horrific accident while vacationing with…

Posted by Stratford Academy on Sunday, July 18, 2021

The tragic incident occurred July 17 when Walker was with his family in Marco Island, Florida. According to FOX 5, the teen was walking three feet away from them when he was struck by lightning.

Walker’s father immediately administered CPR, and he was rushed to a hospital in Miami where he remained in critical condition for 11 days.

Unfortunately, his family shared that “Walker has finished his race here on Earth.”

Less than two weeks after he was struck, the rising high school senior at Stratford Academy in Macon, Georgia died.

Rest in peace

His family shared a journal entry on Caring Bridge thanking family, friends, and the community for their prayers and asking for more during this difficult time.

They also revealed that Walker passed away while listening to one of his favorite songs by the Allman Brothers, “Soulshine.”

“We continue to feel your prayers, love, and comfort, and ask that in the coming days, weeks, and months that you will keep our family close in your prayers.”

My heart goes out to Walker’s family and friends. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain they are feeling.

I will continue to send my thoughts and prayers to them.

Please share this update on Facebook and continue to pray for Walker’s family and friends.