Singapore man, 24, dies after suspected lightning strike near Pasir Ris beach

SINGAPORE, July 6 — A 24‑year‑old man died after he was believed to have been struck by lightning near Pasir Ris Beach on Sunday afternoon, according to police and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

Police said they received a call for assistance at about 4.50pm from 131 Pasir Ris Road, where a group of eight people — aged between 13 and 54 — had been out at sea. All eight were taken to hospital: two to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, and six to Sengkang General Hospital. The 24‑year‑old was unconscious when found and later died. Preliminary investigations do not point to foul play.

The Straits Times reported that the group, comprising five men and three women, had been kayaking and paddleboarding when lightning hit the water. An eyewitness told the paper he saw an unconscious man lying on his paddleboard as others attempted to return to shore. The eyewitness also noted that the skies had appeared clear.

A video circulating online shows SCDF personnel wheeling a person on a stretcher towards an ambulance.

The Meteorological Service Singapore has forecast localised short thundery showers over several days in early July, particularly in the late morning and afternoon.

Police investigations are ongoing.