Lifeguard Impaled by Beach Umbrella in Asbury Park

ASBURY PARK, New Jersey (WABC) — A lifeguard was impaled by a beach umbrella at Asbury Park on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred near Third Avenue around 9:30 a.m.

According to officials, the young woman, estimated to be in her early 20s, fell from her lifeguard chair while attempting to secure a large umbrella that had been caught by strong winds. Lifeguard Joe Bongiovanni described the incident, saying, “It was just a freak thing. When she grabbed the umbrella, she was off-balance and fell backwards, causing the umbrella to go through her arm.”

The aluminum pole, approximately one inch in diameter, penetrated her left armpit and emerged from her back near the scapula, said Asbury Park Fire Department Battalion Chief Christopher Barkalow. “She was conscious and alert throughout the incident,” Barkalow noted, adding that fellow lifeguards provided first aid until emergency crews arrived.

Firefighters had to cut most of the pole away and secure a foot-long section that remained embedded in her arm before she could be transported to the hospital. The victim, who has been a lifeguard for two years, received praise from her colleagues for her fortitude during the ordeal. Barkalow stated, “She was much tougher than most people would be in that situation, although she did complain about the heat.”

Authorities confirmed that the lifeguard was in stable condition at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune after the incident. Chief Keddy emphasized the importance of securing umbrellas properly, advising beachgoers to ensure they are firmly anchored and carried with the point down.