News

Actions

Two kids struck by lightning while fishing in Rodanthe

Posted at 6:25 PM, Jul 16, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-16 18:25:19-04

RODANTHE, N.C. – Two kids were struck by lightning while fishing in Rodanthe Monday afternoon.

According to Chicamacomico Banks Water Rescue, the boys – 11 and 14 years old – were fishing on the beach in the Mirlo community when a thunderstorm passed through the area. The department says both children were standing and holding fishing poles when the lightning struck, knocking them both to the ground.

Crews with the Chicamacomico Banks Fire Department responded to the scene just before 4 p.m. The water rescue crew on patrol, along with other Chicamacomico Banks volunteers, also responded to help the kids.

One boy was taken to the Outer Banks Hospital before a Nightingale flew him to Norfolk for treatment. Authorities say he will likely be released on Wednesday.

The other boy was treated and subsequently released from the Outer Banks Hospital and was back out fishing Tuesday. He received both a department shirt and a “big hug” from Chicamacomico Banks Water Rescue, Captain Carpenter told us.

Download the News 3 app for updates.