Washington (CNN)Lightning strikes across White House, 3 dead, 1 injured Thursday night.
James Mueller, 76, and his 75-year-old Donna Mueller died Thursday night after being injured in a lightning strike at his Park in Lafayette, near White's house. , he confirmed to a spokesperson for the DC Metropolitan Police Department. The couple were visiting from Wisconsin. On Friday afternoon, police said a 29-year-old man had died from his injuries. His name has been withheld until his family is notified.
The condition of the injured person has not been made public.
Law enforcement sources said the victim had weathered the storm under a tree. Around 7pm, a thunderstorm hits his DC area. E.T.
White House Press Secretary Carine Jean-Pierre said in a statement Friday: "We are saddened by the tragic deaths of Lafayette Park in a lightning strike. "Our hearts are filled with love. I am with the families of those who lost loved ones and my prayers are with those who are still fighting for their lives.”
John Jensenius, expert at the National Lightning Safety Council. The three deaths were the 10th, 11th and 12th to be killed by lightning in the United States so far this year, according to the U.S.
Based on data from the past decade, the United States will have an average of 16 lightning deaths annually by August 4, he said Friday night. Told. He also noted that this week's fatalities were the first in Washington since lightning struck a tree at a lacrosse game on May 17, 1991, killing one and injuring 10 others. It pointed out.
"This incident highlights the need for people to move to a safe place whenever a thunderstorm occurs in the area. Even with thunder in the distance, strong buildings and should serve as a warning to enter solid buildings, metal soon,” writes Jensenius. "This incident also highlights the dangers of taking shelter under a tree. Images of the scene show the victim near a tall tree. Lightning strikes the tallest object in the immediate vicinity, They tend to hit trees more often.”
This article has been updated with additional information.
