A nine-year-old boy has died after apparently being struck by lightning, Blackpool police have said.
The boy was on a soccer field just after 5 p.m. Tuesday when a thunderstorm hit.
He was first taken to hospital with serious injuries, according to the Blackpool Gazette, but police later confirmed he was dead.
The pitch is home to the Spirit of Youth Junior Football Club, who said: “It is with deep regret that we have to announce the news that the young boy who was struck by lightning earlier this evening has sadly passed away.
“The tragic incident happened on our home ground, on the Common Edge playing fields, but it was not during a club training session.
“As a club we are heartbroken and offer our deepest condolences to the boy’s family.
“Spirit of Youth is a family and we are anchored in the local community, and we will provide all the necessary support both to the family and to those who were with him at the time.”
Police said: “Although investigations are still ongoing, we currently believe the boy was struck by lightning.
“Emergency services came and he was rushed to hospital, but sadly he passed away shortly after.
“The boy’s family have been notified and are supported by officers.”
Lancashire Police Detective Superintendent Nick Connaughton said: ‘This is a truly devastating incident and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the young boy, who has passed away, at this very sad time and painful. “
Road closures in place following the incident have now been lifted.
Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to the police can call 101, citing newspaper 1169 for May 11.
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Source: news.sky.com
This notice was published: 2021-05-11 20:31:00
