Soccer Fan Hit By Lightning

Lightning apparently struck an off-duty Ohio firefighter who then went into cardiac arrest in Columbus Crew Stadium’s parking lot June 28, sending him to the hospital in critical condition and leading the Major League Soccer team to postpone its game against FC Dallas.

Photo: AP Photo / Columbus Fire Department

Authorities say the central Ohio firefighter remained in critical condition as of June 30.

Firefighters said there was a lightning strike outside of the stadium, but it’s not known if the off-duty lieutenant was struck directly, Columbus Fire Department Battalion Chief Tracy Smith said.

She said he was in critical condition in the intensive care unit at the Ohio State Medical Center the next day.

The storm, with heavy rain and lightning bursts, rolled through about 15 minutes before the game’s scheduled 8 p.m. kickoff. Fans were told to evacuate the stands of the soccer-specific, double-decked stadium and head toward the concourses.

“To all – we are sincerely sorry about tonight’s postponement, but your safety is of the utmost importance,” Crew owner Anthony Precourt tweeted. “We’ll share more info as we can, but a member of our community was severely injured by the weather. Praying for him.”