Lightning Strike on Utah Fishing Boat Leaves One Dead, Two Injured

A peaceful fishing trip turned tragic on a Utah river when lightning struck a boat, claiming one life and injuring two others. The incident occurred Sunday morning on the Bear River in Corinne, about 60 miles north of Salt Lake City.

According to the Box Elder County Sheriff's Office, three people were fishing when lightning hit their boat, causing it to capsize and throwing all occupants into the water. Two survivors managed to reach the shore and were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The third person, however, disappeared underwater. After an extensive search operation, rescuers recovered the body hours later. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims, pending notification of their families.

Chief Deputy Sheriff Cade Palmer expressed condolences in a Facebook post, stating, "We extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this tragic loss, particularly the friends and family of the deceased."

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of fishing during inclement weather. Experts advise anglers to be vigilant about weather conditions and seek shelter immediately when storms approach.

The tragedy underscores the importance of safety precautions while fishing, including wearing life jackets, carrying communication devices, and being prepared for emergencies.

As the community mourns this loss, local authorities have expressed gratitude to the rescue teams involved in the recovery effort. "We are sincerely grateful to all the professionals and volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to the search and successful recovery process," Palmer added.

This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities and serves as a somber reminder for anglers to prioritize safety above all else when venturing out on the water.