Waycross Metropolis Supervisor Ulysess Rayford mentioned the 2 teenagers have been fishing once they have been caught in the midst of a heavy thunderstorm Thursday night time.
WARE COUNTY, Ga. — Two individuals have been killed Thursday night time once they have been struck by lightning in Ware County, Georgia, close to Waycross, based on a preliminary storm report from the Nationwide Climate Service.
Waycross Metropolis Supervisor Ulysess Rayford advised First Coast Information the 2 have been teenagers.
In keeping with the storm report offered by the NWS’s Jacksonville workplace, two individuals have been struck by lightning in an open subject close to a automobile throughout a thunderstorm Thursday round 9:05 p.m.
Rayford advised First Coast Information Friday the 2 teenagers have been on a fishing journey close to Lejune Highway in Ware County when the lightning strike occurred.
Paramedics responded to the scene however each have been pronounced useless, Rayford mentioned.
Waycross Mayor Dr. Michael-Angelo James recognized the 2 teenagers as Joey Nelson and Randall Martin III.
Each graduated from Ware County Excessive Faculty, Nelson in 2024 and Martin in 2025, based on James.
The mayor despatched a press release to First Coast Information by way of Rayford:
We mourn with profound grief the tragic passing of our personal Joey Nelson and Randall Martin III, who misplaced their lives on July 10, 2025, once they have been hit by lightning after a summer season storm.
Joey Nelson, a graduate of the Class of 2024 from Ware County Excessive Faculty, and Randall Martin III, a member of the Class of 2025, have been each beloved members of the Ware County Gators soccer workforce. Their dedication, sportsmanship, and energetic spirits left an indelible mark on their teammates, coaches, and the complete Waycross group. Joey was additionally the grandnephew of our Metropolis Clerk, Mrs. Jacqualine Powell.
Our sympathies are prolonged to her and to each households of those younger males throughout this time of unthinkable loss. On behalf of the Metropolis of Waycross, our deepest sympathies are prolonged to the Nelson and Martin households. We mourn with you, and we’re right here for you. The town will coordinate with Ware County Colleges to assist with memorial occasions.
Allow us to come collectively as a group to recollect Joey and Randall—not just for their athletic skill however for the laughter and inspiration they delivered to all who knew them.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation tells First Coast Information they’re investigating and they’re releasing extra info Monday.
