A 15-year-old boy died Sunday after being struck by lightning while hiking atop Mt. Blue Sky in Colorado. According to his family, the young man tried to protect his younger brother before the impact.
The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office reported that emergency services received the call around 1:22 p.m., after reports that a person had been struck by lightning on the mountaintop.
Teams from the Clear Creek Fire Authority, Clear Creek EMS, Denver Mountain Parks rangers, the Alpine Rescue Team and deputies from the sheriff's office responded to the scene.
The rangers began resuscitation maneuvers at the site, but the teenager could not be saved.
The victim was identified as Levi Strobel
The Clear Creek County Coroner's Office identified the victim as 15-year-old Levi Strobel.
His younger brother, who was also affected by the incident, was airlifted by Flight For Life Colorado to a Denver-area hospital. As of Tuesday morning, authorities had not reported his health status.
According to the preliminary investigation, both were part of a group of five hikers. Two other members, both adults, suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization.
In a statement, the family described Levi as a young man loved by those around him and highlighted the act that, they say, he performed before dying.
"Our family is devastated by the sudden death of our beloved Levi, who was struck by lightning on Mt. Blue Sky. Levi was deeply loved as a son, brother, family member and friend. He brought immense joy to the world and the lives of all who knew him."
The family added that, in his final moments, the teenager tried to protect his younger brother.
"In his final moments, Levi showed the courage and generosity that characterized his life as he tried to protect his younger brother, who was with him on the mountain. He was a brave and loving brother, and we will always remember the dedication he showed toward those he loved."
Authorities express their condolences
The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office expressed its condolences to the family and others affected by the incident.
“We extend our condolences to the family, loved ones and victims of this tragedy,” said the institution, which also requested respect for the privacy of family members while they face grieving.
Authorities have not reported whether weather conditions changed suddenly or offered additional details about the circumstances under which the lightning strike occurred.
