A 20-year-old Disney intern has tragically died after being struck by lightning near a Florida hotel just days after moving to the state for the Disney College Program.
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Matthew Jenkins was hit near a hotel in Celebration on Tuesday, September 8, and was found unresponsive following the incident.
Jenkins had only moved to Florida the previous week before beginning his new role with the Disney College Program.
Lightning Strike Claims Life of Disney Intern
A report from the Osceola County Medical Examiner's Office states that Jenkins was running through a park near the Celebration Hotel on Bloom Street when a sudden thunderstorm hit the area.
As conditions worsened, the student sought shelter under a tree.
Jenkins was not the only person looking for cover, with witnesses saying another group had taken shelter nearby at around 6:30 p.m.
However, they soon noticed that Jenkins had collapsed, with the seriousness of the situation becoming clear moments later.
"As soon as I heard that, I started running and I came over here [where it happened]," said Felipe Costa. "That's when I saw the man."
"There was a lady behind me. She came and started CPR also as soon as possible. We were just waiting until the first responders got there."
Disney Pays Tribute After Intern's Death
Emergency crews were called to the scene, and Jenkins was transported to Celebration Hospital for treatment.
Despite "extensive resuscitation efforts", the 20-year-old was pronounced dead.
Hospital documentation reportedly noted that Jenkins had apparent lightning exit wounds on his feet.
A Disney spokesperson told The New York Post that the company was "deeply saddened by the passing of Matthew."
"He had just begun his Disney College Program journey, and will always be remembered as part of our Disney community."
"Our hearts are with his family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."
Jenkins' father told WESH 2 that he was grateful to everyone who rushed to help his son.
He said Matthew had run cross country in high school and was training for the Chicago Marathon.
"We travel yearly to Disney World and he liked to run in Celebration," he said.
"He was a kind soul and very funny. He was loved by his parents, brother, girlfriend, extended family and several close friends that were like family."
Medical examiners are continuing to determine the exact cause of death.
