WILMINGTON, N.C. — The husband of “One Tree Hill” star Bevin Prince died after being struck by lightning in North Carolina on Sunday.
William Friend, 33, was boating with friends near Masonboro Island when he was struck by lightning.
According to Port City Daily, Wilmington Police Department marine units and New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident. Deputies performed CPR on Friend as they were taking him to the Bradley Creek Marina to meet emergency medical personnel, according to The Associated Press. EMS could not resuscitate Friend, and his body was taken to a nearby hospital where the family was waiting, according to WECT.
Bevin Prince, who appeared in 41 episodes of “One Tree Hill” as cheerleader Bevin Mirskey, married Friend in 2016. The couple later moved to the Wilmington area.
Friend was the CEO of the digital media company Bisnow, based in New York. On Wednesday, the company shared the news of Friend’s death. He joined the company in 2010, according to The Los Angeles Times.
“Will was a trusted partner, executive and a friend. He approached every opportunity and challenge with extreme confidence and optimism, which was infectious to everyone surrounding him. We mourn the loss of such a quality human being, and we will miss Will and all that he brought to the world,” Wicks Group Managing Partner Daniel Kortick said in the statement.
A GoFundMe memorial fund has been created to support causes focused on veterans, as well as a sports and recreation establishment.