Man killed by lightning near finish line of long-distance race
Storm descended on track ‘without warning’, organisers say
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A long distance runner has died after being struck by lightning on the final stretch of a 50km race.
Thomas Stanley was less than half a kilometre away from the end of the FlatRock trail race at Elk City State Park, Kansas when he was killed in the freak weather event, which averagely claims the lives of 27 people a year in the US.
Race organiser Carolyn Robinson said the day had begun with hot and sunny weather – but a storm had descended on the area “without warning”.
She added that Mr Stanley, a 33-year-old father of three young children, was struck "the moment the storm blew in".
Racers, one of whom was a doctor, attempted to resuscitate the non-profit worker while others in the crowd evacuated runners from the track to escape the storm.
"A lot of the participants who were there tending to him are having a very hard time dealing with this loss," the organiser added. "They did everything they could."
Despite not crossing the finish line, race officials included the runner in their rankings, noting he had completed the full distance required. He came in 11th overall, out of 104 competitors.
Partner Ashley Stanley said she was left in disbelief over the death of her husband, describing him as her “best friend”.
“My heart hurts and I feel sick to my stomach” she added “I had 15 blessed years of knowing my best friend and I was planning to have 79”.
Friend Ben Davis, 35, described Mr Stanley as a "running evangelist" who had previously taken part in at least two 100-mile events. Mr Davis ran alongside him to provide support for parts of those races.
"He loved the endurance challenge of overcoming the difficulty it would take on you," he said.
Mr Stanley worked for the non-profit Kansas Leadership Centre. Mr Davis said he focused on interfaith leadership development, teaching people to use their influence "no matter how big or how small, to help others".
Additional reporting by AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments