PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. – A 16-year-old student from McArthur High School has died after being found unresponsive near Pembroke Pines on Wednesday evening, authorities confirmed Thursday.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. after Pembroke Pines police said the male teenager was heading home on a bike when he was possibly struck by lightning.
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Fire rescue crews were also dispatched to the area after receiving reports of the student lying motionless in the grass near the 600 block of Southwest 67th Avenue.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they found the teenager lying underneath a tree, unresponsive.
Rescue personnel quickly assessed the situation and discovered the student was in cardiac arrest. Despite their efforts to revive him, authorities said the student was rushed to Memorial Regional Hospital with burn marks to his thighs and chest, where he was pronounced dead.
“We don’t have confirmation yet, but it does appear as though the patient was struck by lightning,” PPFR said in a statement.
McArthur High School Principal Mark Howard did not disclose the identity of the student but did confirm his death on Thursday.
“Dear McArthur High School families and staff, this is Principal Mark Howard calling to inform you about tragic news impacting our school community,” Howard said. “An 11th-grade student passed away yesterday evening. Though I am unable to share additional details regarding the student’s untimely death, I offer my deepest condolences to the student’s family and loved ones, teachers, and classmates. He will be missed.”
Howard also encouraged families to talk with their children, recognizing that many students may feel the need to share memories or ask questions about the loss. “It is natural and healthy for your child to want to discuss this,” Howard added.
Howard also said In response to the tragedy, grief counselors will be on campus for the remainder of the week to support students and staff members as they cope with the loss.
“To assist our school community in dealing with this loss, grief counselors will be on campus tomorrow and for as long as it is necessary,” Howard said.
Parents and guardians with concerns about their children’s emotional response are encouraged to reach out to their child’s teacher, school counselor, or any member of the administrative team. Howard also provided additional resources for immediate support, directing families to call 211 for assistance.
Authorities said more details regarding the student’s condition and the cause of death will be released by Memorial Regional Hospital as they become available.