Lightning bolt strikes teen lovers

Zim Now Writer

Police in Mashonaland West Province have said an 18-year-old man and his 16-year-old girlfriend were struck by a bolt of lightning on Friday afternoon while on their way from the river.

The man died on the spot while the girl is recovering in hospital.

Mashonaland West Province police spokesperson, Inspector Margaret Chitove said the incident happened on 28 October at around 4.30pm.

She said the now deceased man went to Hunyani River, with his 17-year-old friend, and his 16-year-old girlfriend, and her friend, to wash some clothes. “On their way back, it started raining and the two were struck by a bolt of lightning. They were both thrown into a ditch and the boy died on the spot, and the girl complained of painful eyes,” said Insp Chitove.

Officers from Chemagamba Police Station attended the scene and the girl was rushed to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital where she is recovering.

Insp Chitove implored members of the public to avoid the use of cellphones when outdoors in the rain.

She said: “People must also avoid seeking shelter under trees and being in open spaces, as the chances of being struck by lightning are very high.”