In Texas, a father was killed and his young son was critically injured due to a lightning strike.
On May 15, Matthew Boggs, aged 34, was walking along his driveway, holding the hand of his six-year-old son, Grayson, when they were hit by a sudden lightning bolt. The bolt instantly claimed Matthew’s life and critically wounded Grayson.
The incident left Grayson dependent on a ventilator. He remains in intensive care with brain injuries and is in a coma.
This sorrowful incident took place shortly after Grayson and his sibling, Elijah, were dropped home by their school bus. From a few feet away, Elijah witnessed the horrific event, initially mistaking it for a prank until he realized the seriousness upon seeing his father’s injuries.
Angela Boggs, Matthew’s mother, tearfully narrated the heartrending moment, mentioning how Matthew had professed his love for his son right before the catastrophe struck.
Sherry, Matthew’s mother-in-law, requested prayers and support for the family on social media, alongside posting a photo of Grayson.
To handle the funeral and medical expenses, the family has set up a GoFundMe page, which has already accumulated over $36,000 in donations. The family’s main objective is to rally community support.
According to the CDC, Texas has the second highest number of lightning-related fatalities, recording 36 deaths over the past 15 years. The southeastern states, including Texas, have a heightened incidence of lightning strikes, and thus, an increased associated risk.
