A Russian marine on leave from the war in Ukraine survived a series of improbable events in the Altai Republic, including a lightning strike, his horse collapsing on him, and an encounter with a bear, according to local media reports.
The soldier was reportedly riding a horse when he spotted a brown bear chasing him. He attempted to tether his horse to a tree as he fled, but as he reached it, lightning struck the tree, the horse, and the rider.
The horse was killed instantly by the lightning and fell on the marine, trapping his leg. The lightning bolt reportedly struck the back of the soldier's head and neck, igniting his cap and jacket collar. Dmitry Khubezov, a spokesman for the Altai Republic's health ministry, stated that the soldier's entire body was paralyzed except for one arm, which moved with great difficulty.
Despite his injuries and paralysis, the marine managed to free his leg and began crawling more than half a mile toward the nearest road. The bear, unharmed by the lightning, reportedly followed him until he fired his rifle to scare it away.
Upon reaching the roadside, he was discovered by passing motorists who took him to the nearest hospital. He is currently receiving treatment and has become a notable case among medical staff due to his survival.
Reports indicate that the soldier's family has been deeply affected by the war in Ukraine, with both of his elder brothers having been killed while fighting. Khubezov commented on the incident, stating that resilience is crucial regardless of life's difficulties.