Mystery Jogger Struck by Lightning on Superior Trail

Woman remains unidentified and in critical condition after incident on Boulder County path

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:43pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, with a small, shadowy figure barely visible in the foreground, dwarfed by the dramatic, swirling clouds and ominous sky above.A powerful storm system serves as a stark reminder of nature's raw, untamed force, as a lone jogger faces the elements on a remote trail.Superior Today

A woman was struck by lightning while jogging on a trail in Superior, Colorado, leaving her unresponsive and without identification. First responders performed CPR and airlifted her to a Denver-area hospital, where she remains in critical condition. Authorities are asking the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the victim.

Why it matters

Lightning strikes are a serious threat, especially as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of severe weather. This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the challenges authorities face when responding to medical emergencies involving unidentified victims.

The details

On April 9, deputies were dispatched to the 1000 block of LaSalle Street in Superior after reports of a loud boom and a woman found on the ground. Bystanders had already begun CPR on the unresponsive woman, who was discovered beneath a tree that had been struck by lightning. First responders were able to revive her, but she remains in critical condition at a Denver-area hospital. The woman was not carrying identification, and authorities have been unable to determine her identity through fingerprint checks and missing-person records.

  • On April 9, deputies were dispatched to the scene around 5:39 p.m.
  • The woman was found unresponsive and not breathing when first responders arrived.

The players

Boulder County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency investigating the incident and asking the public for help identifying the victim.

Mountain View Fire Rescue

The fire department that provided advanced medical care to the woman at the scene.

Louisville Fire Protection District

The fire department that assisted in the emergency response.

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What’s next

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who may know the identity of the woman or have information about the incident to call 303-441-4444 and reference case 26-01604.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of lightning strikes and the importance of emergency preparedness. The unidentified victim's condition highlights the challenges authorities face when responding to medical emergencies involving unknown individuals, underscoring the need for improved identification methods and coordination between first responders.