Lightning kills one person, injures two others in Kisii

A soccer match at Marani turned tragic after one person died after he was struck by lightning yesterday. Two others were injured.

Deputy County Commissioner David Saruni told The Standard that Newton Nyantika died on the spot while his two friends suffered serious burns and were rushed to Marani Sub-County Hospital. Saruni said the two were out of danger after they were treated and later discharged to recuperate at home. The body was taken to Kisii County Hospital mortuary.

“The victim and his two friends were among residents who had turned up at Marani Primary School grounds to watch a soccer match between two local teams before the tragedy struck. As soon as the rains started, many people ran off to take cover,” said Saruni.

The commissioner called on all schools and homes in the area to ensure that they have installed lightning arresters to prevent disasters, which happen especially during heavy rains. He also cautioned sports lovers against playing in the rain.