Lightning strike kills two farmers

By Jennifer P. Rendon

 

A lightning strike claimed the lives of two farmers afternoon of Sept. 4, 2020 at San Lorenzo, Guimaras.

Noel Espanilla, 31, and Michael Gabayeron, 49, were believed to have died instantly after they were struck by lightning 4:45 pm Friday at Barangay San Enrique.

Police Staff Sergeant Edwin Alacar, San Lorenzo police investigator, said the two victims were taking a short rest, as they were supposed to gather the cut rice stalks.

The two were standing a meter apart when lightning suddenly struck them.

Espanilla suffered burns on his back and legs. His hair was also burnt.

Gabayeron, on the other hand, was seen with blood oozing from his nose.

Their fellow farmers immediately called for an ambulance to bring them to the hospital.

Alacar said the victims were proclaimed dead on arrival at the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital.