A 15-year-old Colorado boy died Sunday after a lightning strike on Mount Blue Sky, an incident his family described as a heroic sacrifice to save his younger brother.
Levi Strobel was struck by lightning at the mountain's summit during a storm. His 13-year-old brother, Jace, was also injured by the strike but survived. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and attempted lifesaving measures on Levi, but he could not be revived. Jace was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.
The two brothers were hiking with two adult males, who sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalization, according to the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office.
In a statement, Levi's family described him as a courageous and selfless individual. "In his final moments, Levi showed the courage and selflessness that characterized his life, seeking to protect his younger brother, who was with him on the mountain," the family said. They also noted his deep love for his family and his Christian faith.
Levi's parents, Sara and Dain Strobel, and his three brothers, Jace, Deaj (17), and Kai (11), are being supported by their community. A GoFundMe page established for the family has raised over $84,000. The family expressed hope for Jace's recovery and gratitude for the outpouring of support.
According to the National Lightning Safety Council, Levi was the sixth person to die from a lightning strike in the U.S. this year. Since his death, two additional fatalities have been reported in Wisconsin and New Jersey. The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office extended its condolences to the family and all affected by the tragedy.