N.J. Admin. Code § Executive Order No. 258 (2021)
Governor Philip D. Murphy
Executive Order No. 258 (2021)
An Order Directing that the U.S. and New Jersey Flags Fly at Half-Staff for the Passing of Berkeley Township Beach Patrol Lifeguard Keith Pinto
Issued: September 1, 2021.
Effective: September 1, 2021.
WHEREAS, Keith Pinto was a resident of Toms River and a 2020 graduate of Toms River High School North; and
WHEREAS, Keith was a valued member of the Berkeley Township Beach Patrol; and
WHEREAS, Keith devoted his summer to service as a lifeguard, helping ensure the safety of those enjoying White Sands Beach in South Seaside Park; and
WHEREAS, Keith was well known for his kindness, cheerful disposition, and loyalty to his family and friends; and
WHEREAS, on August 30, 2021, Keith was 19 years old and about to resume classes at Ocean County College; and
WHEREAS, Keith was on duty guarding the waters of Twenty-First Avenue Beach when an unexpected cluster of thunderstorms quickly descended on the coastline; and
WHEREAS, Keith was struck by lightning and tragically died from his injuries, while seven other individuals sustained serious injuries; and
WHEREAS, Keith was a beloved son, twin brother, nephew, and cousin, whose joyful and uplifting presence will be forever missed by his family, his friends, his fellow members of the Berkeley Heights Beach Patrol, his Toms River community, and by the people of New Jersey; and
WHEREAS, it is with immense sadness that we mourn Keith's sudden passing and extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and fellow lifeguards; and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to honor the cherished memory of Keith and to mark his passing;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, PHILIP D. MURPHY, Governor of the State of New Jersey, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and by the Statutes of this State, do hereby ORDER and DIRECT:
N.J. Admin. Code Executive Order No. 258 (2021)