Disney College Program Participant, 20, Dies After Celebration Lightning Strike

A 20-year-old man participating in the Disney College Program died last week after a lightning strike in Celebration. Matthew Eric Jenkins, who recently moved from Michigan, was found unresponsive near a walking path on September 8.

Osceola County sheriff’s deputies responded to a call regarding an unresponsive man. Witnesses reported a lightning strike occurred before they found Jenkins and performed CPR. First responders transported Jenkins to a local hospital, where medical staff pronounced him dead. A medical examiner confirmed injuries from the lightning strike caused his death.

Jenkins was an avid runner, training for the Chicago Marathon. He frequently ran in the Celebration community. The incident highlights the serious dangers of lightning, a significant weather hazard in Florida.

The Disney College Program allows students to earn academic credits while working at Disney parks in various roles, including food and beverage, retail, operations, and entertainment. Participants often relocate to the area for the duration of the program.

Florida has reported six lightning deaths this year. National data indicates 15 lightning deaths across the U.S. so far in 2026. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) emphasizes that any thunderstorm poses a potential risk. NOAA advises seeking shelter inside a large enclosed structure, such as a home, store, school, office building, or a vehicle with rolled-up windows, during a thunderstorm. Once inside, individuals should avoid electrical appliances and plumbing and try to stay in an interior room.