Utah Dad Steve Matheson Killed by Lightning Helping Stranded Boaters

A Father’s Final Act

Steve Matheson, a 47-year-old father from Utah, died after a lightning strike killed him while he tried to help stranded boaters. Just before 6:35 p.m. off the Fort de Soto coast, he spotted a disabled boat while jet skiing. Matheson stopped to help the boaters even though a storm was brewing nearby. He realized they were in trouble and moved toward them before the tempest advanced right on top of him.

His cousin Marianne Matheson Shuman told ABC affiliate KTVX that the weather turned deadly fast. “The lightning took him pretty quickly,” she said. Matheson was rushed to a local hospital but died from his injuries. He leaves behind his wife Abbie and their four children.

Family and Friends Honor a Hero

Friends and family describe Matheson as a man who lived to serve others. His cousin noted that “Even in his last moments he was helping and serving strangers,” she added. She said about her late relative, “He would have it no other way.” An outpouring of tributes has been received by the diehard Brigham Young University Cougars football fan, who is also known as a devoted husband and loving father.

“His family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every moment he was able to spend with them,” stated April Beck, his friend.Matheson lived his faith deeply as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mitch Faas recalled how Matheson helped move fireworks for a holiday celebration just days before. “He showed up with his oldest son and jumped right in, just like he had for our shows over the last several years,” Faas said.

Faas shared that his last text to Matheson thanked him for always being someone he could count on. “We appreciate you and are always willing to help,” Matheson added after replying, “Always brotha.” Another friend, Aaron Boone, remembered their shared love for competition and football. Boone noted they shared a strong faith and a deep love for their families.

The Cost of Selflessness

This tragedy highlights the extreme risks some take to save strangers. The storm moved quickly off the Florida coast, leaving little time for escape once the lightning struck. Matheson’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to support the children he left behind. The New York Post and US News have reported the details of this heartbreaking event.

There is no blame to assign here, only a loss of a good man. The community now mourns a father who chose to act when others might have fled. His final hours were spent ensuring others reached safety. That choice defined his life and his death.