Jake Rosencranz, a 29-year-old project manager from Denver, perished in August after being struck by lightning. At the time of the incident, he was in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, on his honeymoon. The fatal event occurred at approximately 12:30 PM on June 20, 2025, as Rosencranz stood in ankle-deep water beneath a clear blue sky. Authorities have said that he was the first documented lightning fatality in Florida this year.
Rosencranz was on his honeymoon with his wife, Leah, when he was hit. At the time of the incident, two other golfers at the Venetian Bay course were injured as well by lightning. They were only tangentially impacted. Far away, another storm released a bolt of lightning that struck Rosencranz. This event captured the full extent of the changeable and chaotic character of weather in this part of the world.
Originally from Boston, Rosencranz is a 2019 graduate of the University of Denver. He currently serves as a senior associate for the Behm Consulting Group. Prior to that, he led workforce development efforts for a construction company in Denver. His T4A colleagues and friends remember him as a relentless professional and an irreplaceable partner and friend.
“Jake Rosencranz was a great friend and beloved colleague.” – Nick Behm
As our group’s owner, Nick Behm said, in wake of his friend and mentor Rosencranz’s untimely passing.
“We are heartbroken over this terrible loss.” – Nick Behm
Florida is perhaps the most famous state for its high number of lightning kills, strikes per area, or both. In 2024 it led the United States in both categories. This dramatic increase in incidents has led to a lot of frustration among residents and visitors.
Rosencranz’s sudden passing has left a deep hole in the lives of his family and friends. His wife, Leah, according to friends, is completely broken by the tragedy.