Fowler Associates Labs

Ohio Construction Worker Struck by Lightning

July 6, 2005

Springboro, Ohio-- A 51-year-old construction worker was hit by lightning during a late June thunderstorm. He was struck while helping to build a new elementary school in Warren County, Ohio.

Authorities said the unidentified man was working on a new school in the Springboro School District. The construction crew stopped working while the afternoon thunderstorm was overhead. However, once the storm moved on and the sun came out, the construction crew went back to work. Authorities said it was then that, lightning struck a piece of machinery that the man was operating.

Officials went on to say that the man managed to make it into his work trailer, but was unable to speak. Several other men at the scene knew what happened and called 911 immediately.

The man was taken to Miami Valley Hospital, where he is listed in fair condition.

Authorities said a 19-year-old who was working about 20 feet from the lightning strike felt the effects of the bolt, but suffered no injuries.