by Fire Island, NY – Tragedy struck on Long Island Friday afternoon when a man jumped to his death from the Fire Island Lighthouse, just as the popular summer destination was preparing to welcome crowds for the Labor Day weekend.
The Incident
According to the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), the unidentified man leapt from the 168-foot lighthouse’s observation deck around 1:45 p.m. on August 29, 2025.
Investigators confirmed that surveillance footage captured the man purchasing a ticket to climb the tower before making his fatal jump. Authorities have not released his name or age.
In a statement, SCPD said: “Suffolk County Police Homicide Squad detectives, in conjunction with the National Park Service, are investigating the death of a man who jumped from the Fire Island Lighthouse this afternoon.”
Lighthouse Temporarily Closed
The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society, which manages the landmark, announced that the lighthouse was immediately closed following the tragedy.
“The lighthouse is temporarily closed until further notice,” officials confirmed in a facebook post on Friday evening. The society later clarified that the tower would remain closed on Saturday, but reopen to the public on Sunday.
The closure came at a time when the lighthouse typically draws large numbers of tourists eager to take in the panoramic views of the New York City skyline during the holiday weekend.
About the Fire Island Lighthouse
The Fire Island Lighthouse, located at the western end of Fire Island National Seashore, has been a historic Long Island landmark for more than 160 years.
- First lit in 1858,
- Renovated in 1891 with its iconic alternating black-and-white stripes,
- Stands at 168 feet tall,
- Offers sweeping views, with visitors often able to see Manhattan on clear days.
It is the tallest lighthouse on Long Island and is a frequent stop for locals and tourists alike.
Other Recent Tragedies on Fire Island
Friday’s death comes less than a week after another tragedy near the island.
On August 23, 59-year-old Pastor Ishmoile Mohammed of North Carolina drowned in the waters off Sailors Haven, roughly 2.5 miles from the lighthouse. According to police, a strong rip current pulled him west while swimming with family.
Lifeguards managed to pull him from the water, and he was airlifted to South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, where he was later pronounced dead.
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Suicide Prevention Resources
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the man’s death at the lighthouse will be classified as a suicide, but the incident highlights the ongoing need for mental health resources.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide:
- In New York City, call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free, confidential crisis counseling.
- Nationwide, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, available 24/7, or visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
Community Impact
The Fire Island Lighthouse is not only a tourist attraction but also a piece of Long Island’s cultural and maritime history. The sudden closure before Labor Day weekend has left both tourists and locals shaken, while also raising questions about visitor safety at tall public landmarks.
As the investigation continues, visitors are reminded that the lighthouse will reopen on Sunday, August 31, for those wishing to experience the historic landmark in a safe manner.
What are your thoughts on this tragedy and the safety of historic landmarks like the Fire Island Lighthouse? Share your views in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
