New Jersey Lifeguard Impaled by Beach Umbrella in Freak Asbury Park Accident

A woman was impaled on the beach in Asbury Park

A lifeguard in Asbury Park, New Jersey was seriously injured Wednesday morning after being impaled by a beach umbrella in a rare and disturbing accident, according to local emergency officials.

The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. near 3rd Avenue on the beach. Fire Department Chief Kevin Keddy said the wind-propelled umbrella pierced the female lifeguard’s upper left shoulder and exited through her back.

Despite the severity of the injury, the victim remained conscious and alert throughout the incident. Fellow lifeguards quickly administered first aid until firefighters and emergency medical services arrived on the scene.

A lifeguard station at Asbury Park

Due to the size of the beach umbrella’s metal stake—approximately six feet long—emergency responders were forced to cut it into smaller sections at the scene to facilitate safe transport. It could not be removed on-site and had to remain in place during transit to the hospital.

The injured lifeguard, who works for the Asbury Park Beach Patrol, is expected to survive. Chief Keddy praised her strength, saying, “She’s a tough young woman.”

Officials used the incident to remind beachgoers to properly secure umbrellas in the sand and carry them with the point down to avoid dangerous accidents, especially on windy days.