A father of four has tragically died after lightning struck him while he was jet skiing off the Florida coast.
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Steve Matheson was reportedly helping a group of stranded boaters when the incident occurred on Saturday, August 30.
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of an adult male jet skier struck by lightning near Fort De Soto at around 6:35 p.m. local time.
Lightning Strike Kills Father of Four Off Florida Coast
Emergency crews rushed Matheson, who was from Saratoga Springs, Utah, to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
His cousin, Marianne Matheson Shuman, explained that Matheson was jet skiing with a friend when they noticed a nearby boat appeared to have broken down.
Despite a storm approaching the area, the father of four decided to help the stranded boaters. However, the storm quickly moved directly over the group.
"The lightning took him pretty quickly," Marianne said. "Even in his last moments he was helping and serving strangers. He would have it no other way."
"He was not afraid to tell someone how much he loved them, he loved big. As much as he loved, it is going to leave that big of a hole. His wife was his world; his kids were his world. They were his number one."
Family Remembers Steve Matheson After Tragic Death
Marianne recalled being in "disbelief" when she first heard the devastating news.
"We are still in shock," she added. "It was devastating to hear like who gets struck by lightning? I was waiting for her to say, 'but he is okay,' but I didn't get that."
A GoFundMe page has since been created to support Matheson's family "during this incredibly difficult time".
"His sudden passing has left his family, friends, and community heartbroken and trying to navigate a loss that no one could have ever imagined," the description reads.
In just three days, the fundraiser has raised nearly $90,000 toward its $200,000 goal.
Friends and family have rallied around Matheson's loved ones, with several leaving heartfelt messages on the fundraiser page.
"We'll miss you Steve, you'll always be our football brother," Jason Helean wrote. "Abbie, if we can be there for you in any way there's a brotherhood that will always support you and your kids in any way we can. We know Steve would have done the same for us. Love you all.
"God be with you 'till we meet again."
Matheson is survived by his wife, Abbie, and their four children.
He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a fan of the Brigham Young University football team.
