Siesta Key lightning victim identified as Seffner man

Lightning struck and killed a man on Siesta Key's beach on Sunday afternoon as storms rolled through the area, according to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff’s Office said visiting first responders administered immediate first aid along with beach lifeguards while fire-rescue units were on the way after the 2:15 p.m. incident.

The Sheriff’s Office said James W. Barton, 33, of Seffner, was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Detectives are conducting an investigation.

Strong storms swept through the area throughout the early afternoon, bringing torrential rain and frequent lightning. 

Conditions on Monday are expected to be similar to Sunday's. The Sarasota area has an 80% chance of rain and storms, with the highest chance after 3 p.m. west of Interstate 75. 

According to the National Weather Service, gusty winds, frequent lightning and small hail are all possible.