Loogootee Golf Course manager killed in storm

Loogootee Golf Course manager, 72-year-old Mike Bird, was discovered by golfers at the Lakeview Golf Club at 9 p.m., under a tree that had fallen on the property when a storm came through Wednesday.

Bird was the long time manager of the course and was out between the first and ninth holes when the incident took place.

According to Martin County Sheriff Rob Street, golfers at the course were ending their rounds when they discovered Bird was not at the club’s pro shop. After a search, Bird’s body was located under the tree along with a golf cart.

Street said, “It’s a tremendous loss for the entire county. Mike and his family had been managing the course for many years and had done a very good job with it. It was tragic. He will be missed.”

It is believed the tree fell by either wind or lightning in a storm that went through the area around 6 pm. Street said he believed a lightning strike was responsible for the fallen tree.

County Coroner Mark Franklin, and Deputy Coroner Mike Strawn pronounced Bird dead at the scene.

Bird and his family had managed the course for nearly 15 years. The course is part of the West Boggs Lake area, but is leased under contract.