A 31-year-old mother and her two-year-old daughter died after being struck by lightning during a thunderstorm in Margate, Florida, on Sunday afternoon. The victims were identified as Kenya Glasgow and her daughter, Kennedi. Emergency responders received reports of the strike near Northwest First Street and rushed to the scene.
Lightning Strike During Thunderstorm
Witnesses reported hearing a loud lightning strike during the storm before discovering the mother and child lying on the ground near their vehicle. A neighbor, Prince Moody, said he heard the strike and rushed outside after noticing something unusual. He then contacted emergency services and tried to assist.
Margate Police and Fire Rescue officers responded at about 2:30 p.m. and immediately began life-saving efforts. Kenya was taken to North Broward Medical Center, while her daughter was transported with a police escort to Broward Health Medical Center. Both were later pronounced dead.
Victims Were Returning Home
The victims were reportedly returning home when the lightning struck during the thunderstorm. Kenya’s husband, Kameron Glasgow, mourned the loss of his wife and daughter, describing his wife as someone with “the biggest heart in the world.”
The Margate Police Department said the incident was under investigation. Lightning strikes can cause severe injuries or death because the electrical current from a strike can affect the heart, brain and nervous system.
Community Response and Safety Advice
Although most lightning incidents are not fatal, authorities advise people to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and avoid exposed outdoor areas. The deaths of Kenya and Kennedi have drawn condolences from residents and the local community.
