Lightning strike sends 7 minors to hospital while hiking in central Utah

SEVIER COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — Seven underage hikers in Sevier County were hospitalized Thursday after lightning struck the ground next to their youth group, according to Sevier County Sheriff’s Office.

At about 1:45 p.m., a youth group from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was walking near Fremont Junction when a light thunderstorm rolled in. Officials said lightning struck the ground, which was covered in puddles from the rain, and was felt by 50 of the youth.

Seven minors were taken by ambulance to local hospitals to be treated for electrocution. Two of the teens were then flown by medical helicopter to Primary Children’s Hospital in Lehi due to severe symptoms. Sevier County officials say the injuries are not considered life-threatening at this time.

According to official information, the remaining teenagers were unharmed and were brought home safely.

“We thank all first responders who assisted with this incident: Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, Sevier County EMS, Salina Police, Sevier County SAR, Emery County Sheriff’s Office, Emery County EMS, Utah Highway Patrol, (and) Richfield DPS Communications Center,” the SCSO said.

No further information is available at this time.