Colorado Teen Killed by Lightning While Hiking Mount Blue Sky
A tragic lightning strike claimed the life of 15-year-old Levi Strobel while he was hiking Mount Blue Sky in Colorado on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The incident occurred at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time, as Levi and four other hikers, including his 13-year-old brother Jace, were navigating the summit at an elevation of around 14,000 feet. According to the Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office, Levi was struck by lightning and succumbed to his injuries despite lifesaving efforts. His younger brother, Jace, sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a Denver hospital, where he is reportedly improving. Two adult hikers also suffered minor injuries but were not hospitalized. Levi's family has expressed their grief and praised his bravery, noting that he tried to protect his younger brother during the incident. This marks the sixth lightning-related fatality in the U.S. this year, as reported by the National Lightning Safety Council. 
