Wisconsin couple dies after lighting strike near White House

In this photo provided by @dcfireems, emergency medical crews are staged on Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and Lafayette Park, Thursday evening,…

In this photo provided by @dcfireems, emergency medical crews are staged on Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and Lafayette Park, Thursday evening, Aug. 4, 2022 in Washington. Two people who were critically injured in a lightning strike in Lafayette Park outside the White House have died, police said Friday. Two others remained hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Authorities haven’t revealed how the people were injured, other than to say they were critically hurt in the lightning strike. (@dcfireems via AP)

by: Devin Willems

Posted: Aug 5, 2022 / 11:01 AM CDT

Updated: Aug 5, 2022 / 11:01 AM CDT

(WFRV) – Two people from southern Wisconsin have reportedly died following a lightning strike near the White House.

The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that 76-year-old James Mueller and 75-year-old Donna Mueller died following a lightning strike in Lafayette Square. Two others were also injured in the incident and had critical life-threatening injuries.

Uniformed officers from the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division and the United States Park Police reportedly saw the lightning strike happen. It was mentioned that officers rendered aid to the victims.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre issued a statement on the incident:

We are saddened by the tragic loss of life after the lightning strike in Lafayette Park. Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones, and we are praying for those still fighting for their lives.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre

Police said that both James and Donna were visiting from Janesville.

Local 5 will update this story if more details are released.

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