A 24-year-old Singaporean man has tragically passed away following a suspected lightning strike incident off Pasir Ris Beach, leaving the local sea sports community in mourning.
The victim, identified as Mikhail Benyamin, was known among peers as a dedicated freelance sea sports instructor with a strong passion for water-based activities. Friends and colleagues have since paid tribute to him, remembering him as a dependable and caring figure who often guided others both professionally and personally.
Described as a “big brother” to many, Mikhail’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through those who knew him, particularly within Singapore’s tight-knit outdoor adventure scene.
Incident Occurred During Leisure Outing with Safety Measures in Place
The incident reportedly took place during a casual outing at Pasir Ris Park, where Mikhail had gathered with family and friends for a picnic before heading out to sea for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Despite the informal nature of the gathering, he is said to have conducted a proper safety briefing before the group entered the water. As an experienced instructor affiliated with Outdoor Adventures and Kokomo Beach Club, he had borrowed equipment including kayaks and paddles for the session.
At the time of the incident, Mikhail and seven others, aged between 13 and 54, were making their way back to shore within a designated activity zone when lightning struck. Emergency services were alerted in the late afternoon, and he was conveyed unconscious to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Clear Weather Conditions Raise Safety Concerns
According to company representatives, there were no prior indications of severe weather. Witnesses at the scene noted that skies were clear, and no lightning warning systems had been activated before the strike occurred.
Standard operating procedures typically require all participants to return to shore immediately once lightning alerts are issued. In more severe conditions, additional recall methods such as sirens and whistles are deployed to ensure safety.
However, in this case, rain reportedly began only after the lightning strike had already taken place. Nearby fishermen were among the first to respond, assisting the group before emergency services arrived.
Community Mourns Loss of Dedicated Instructor
Mikhail had pursued studies in outdoor education at Republic Polytechnic and held recognised qualifications as a water sports instructor under the Ministry of Education. He regularly conducted kayaking and coaching sessions, earning a reputation for professionalism and reliability.
Colleagues have described him as a positive influence within the community, highlighting his willingness to mentor others and his calm leadership during activities.
In response to the incident, Kokomo Beach Club has temporarily suspended operations as a mark of respect. The organisation has also indicated that it will review its safety protocols, particularly in relation to sudden weather changes and lightning risk management.
The company has extended its condolences to Mikhail’s family, pledging support during this difficult period. His passing serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor environments, even under seemingly safe conditions.