Two dead after being struck by lightning in Wilmington

WILMINGTON – Two men have died after being struck by lightning while cutting down tree limbs Wednesday morning.

Ralph Thomas Wallace, 77, and his friend Saw Ni Keday Moo, 42, were cutting limbs in Thomas’ yard at 6205 North Bradley Overlook around 11:49 a.m. when they were struck by lightning, according to the Wilmington Police Department.

At the same time, a strong thunderstorm was rolling through the area. The men were pronounced dead at the scene, according to WPD.

It is not known if the men were doing tending to storm damage from Hurricane Isaias or simple yard work during the time of the strike.

The house immediately to the left of 6205 North Bradley Overlook also suffered damage from the strike, including a small attic fire.

No one was injured in the fire.

Reporter Hunter Ingram can be reached at 910-343-2327@StarNewsOnline.com.

How to avoid lightning strikes

– When thunder roars, go indoors. And if a weather forecast includes thunderstorms, postpone outdoor activities.

– If outside without shelter, crouch low with little of your body touching the ground.

– Stay away from concrete floors or walls.

– Stay away from windows and electronic equipment, although cordless and cell phones are safe.

Source: National Center for Environmental Health