Woman struck by lightning in Colorado remains in critical condition

Authorities identify victim after public appeal for help

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:51pm

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A dramatic landscape painting depicting a lone, twisted tree silhouetted against a stormy, brooding sky, with a powerful lightning bolt striking the ground nearby, conveying the overwhelming force of nature.A powerful lightning strike in Colorado leaves a victim fighting for their life, underscoring the dangers of severe weather.Denver Today

A woman who was knocked unconscious by a lightning strike in Superior, Colorado on Thursday evening has been identified by the Boulder County Sheriff's Office. The woman, who was found wearing a jogging outfit and had no identification on her, is still in critical condition at a hospital in Denver. Bystanders called 911 after hearing a loud boom and finding the woman unresponsive beneath a tree.

Why it matters

Lightning strikes can be extremely dangerous, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. This incident highlights the importance of public safety awareness and the need for swift emergency response during severe weather events.

The details

According to the Boulder County Sheriff's Office, the woman was found unconscious and unresponsive on a concrete path between Superior Elementary School and the 1000 block of Lasalle Street. Bystanders began performing CPR until first responders arrived. The woman had no pulse when paramedics from Mountain View Fire Rescue arrived, but they were able to resuscitate her and get her breathing on her own. She was then airlifted to a hospital in Denver, where she remains in critical condition.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, April 11, 2026 at around 5:39 p.m.
  • The Boulder County Sheriff's Office released a photo of the woman's arm tattoos on Friday in an effort to locate her family.

The players

Boulder County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and is leading the investigation.

Mountain View Fire Rescue

The fire department that provided emergency medical care to the lightning strike victim.

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What they’re saying

“The woman's family is now by her side at a hospital, the sheriff's office stated. They have asked for privacy.”

— Boulder County Sheriff's Office, Spokesperson

What’s next

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the incident and monitor the woman's condition at the hospital.

The takeaway

This lightning strike serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of severe weather and the importance of taking proper safety precautions during thunderstorms. The community is hopeful for the woman's recovery and is grateful for the swift emergency response that likely saved her life.