By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2026-06-03 14:43:47 | Updated at 2026-06-07 05:15:10
3 days ago
An 18-year-old kayaker died after a freak lightning strike tossed him into a Florida river.
Michael Aidan Vargas was kayaking with his father on the Blackwater River in Santa Rosa County, about 170 miles west of Tallahassee, on Sunday when he was struck by lightning.
His father and employees from the Navy's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation program watched as Vargas fell into the water and rushed to search for him.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continued the search after being notified at 12.25pm, according to a press release.
Several agencies, including dive teams, were involved until Vargas's body was recovered.
Vargas's sister, Marissa Vargas, told the Daily Mail that the cause of death has not yet been determined.
'Aiden was always so happy; he loved his life and loved his family and friends so much,' Vargas said.
'He would want everyone to be happy just like he always was.'
Michael Aidan Vargas, 18, was kayaking with his father on the Blackwater River in Santa Rosa County, Florida, on Sunday when he was struck by lightning
Vargas's sister, Marissa, told the Daily Mail that the cause of death has not yet been determined.
He fell off his kayak and was later found deceased by officials
She added that the family asks that any support or donations be made to Daphne Search and Rescue.
Additionally, she wrote a heartfelt tribute to Instagram, captioned: 'Rest in peace, my guardian angel.'
'You were too pure for this world. I’m so grateful to experience the time I had with you. You will always be so loved and missed by everyone you met. I will always honor you and your life.'
'I encourage everyone to share pictures and stories of Aiden and talk about him as much as possible. I will be waiting for the day I get to see you again, but until then, you will always be in my heart.'
'I love you, my little brother.'
Several agencies were involved in the search including dive teams. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission noted the incident is under investigation
Other friends and loved ones of Vargas shared messages on social media: 'Aiden will continue to teach anyone who knew him kindness and compassion, there are no words, I am so incredibly sorry'
'May he rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this time,' a friend wrote
The FWC noted that the incident remains under investigation, according to Fox Weather.
'The FWC extends its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Michael Aiden Vargas during this difficult time,' the Florida FWC said in a statement.
Several other friends and loved ones of Vargas shared messages on social media giving their condolences in the wake of the tragedy.
One user wrote: 'Aiden will continue to teach anyone who knew him kindness and compassion, there are no words, I am so incredibly sorry.'
Another added: 'Wow, I’m truly shocked and saddened to hear this. My condolences go out to his family, friends, and everyone whose life he touched.'
A third wrote: 'May he rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this time.'
