Osceola County deputies confirmed that 20‑year‑old Matthew Jenkins of Michigan died after a lightning strike hit the walking path off Bloom Street near downtown Celebration on Tuesday evening. Witnesses said Jenkins fell to the ground moments after the strike and was taken to a hospital, where he later passed away.

Friends remember a “kindest soul”

Jenkins’ best friend, Blake Jahn, described the loss as “unbelievable” and recalled how the two met running cross‑country in high school and later attended Oakland University together. “We didn’t hit it off right away, but once we did, we started running together, and that grew a brotherhood beyond anything,” Jahn said.

Jenkins had moved to Central Florida a week earlier to begin the Disney College Program, a step his friends say he was very excited about. “He was shy growing up, and to see him go out and do something like that, we were all so happy for him,” Jahn added.

Family ties to Disney and the outdoors

Jenkins’ father, Jeffrey Jenkins, told WESH 2 that the family had traveled to Disney World annually and that Matthew loved to run in Celebration while training for the Chicago Marathon. He also noted that his son had spent the summer exploring many national parks.

Before leaving for Florida, a group of friends gathered in Michigan for a farewell ice‑cream outing and a group hug in Jahn’s driveway. “Looking back now, I’m so happy we did,” Jahn said, recalling the final moments together.

Community response

A Disney spokesperson expressed deep sadness, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Matthew. He had just begun his Disney College Program journey and will always be remembered as part of our Disney community.”

Jahn shared a comforting thought a friend offered after the tragedy: “A man dies only when he is forgotten.” He said he will keep that sentiment close, believing his friend will live on in the memories of those who loved him.

Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.