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At approximately 3:35 PM today Boston EMS and Massachusetts State Troopers responded to a report of a woman struck by lightning at Savin Hill Beach in Boston’s Dorchester section. The woman, a 31-year-old Dorchester woman remains in critical condition at this time.
An investigation by the State Police Detective Unit for Suffolk County, the State Police Troop H Detective Unit, and the State Police-South Boston Barracks determined the following facts.
The woman was walking her dog, Bruce, along the boardwalk at the beach when she stopped to speak to another walker, a 49-year-old woman. While they were speaking, a lightning bolt struck the area where they were standing, throwing both women into the air. The 31-year-old woman was thrown onto the beach and was unresponsive. Witnesses called 911 and began performing CPR. Boston EMS and Troopers responded to the scene and the woman was transported to Boston Medical Center, where she remains in critical condition.
The 49-year-old was thrown in a different direction by the force of the blast but is not believed to have been struck by the actual lightning. That woman indicated that she would make her own arrangements for medical evaluation.
Bruce, the 31-year-old victim’s dog, was scared by the blast and ran off. He has not been found as of this writing. A description of Bruce was put out to area patrols asking officers to keep an eye out for him. A photo of Bruce is included with this release. Anyone who sees him is asked to contact the State Police-South Boston Barracks at 617-740-7710, or simply call 911.
BRUCE. If seen call 911 or MSP at 617-740-7710.
A Trooper from the State Police Crime Scene Services Section also responded and documented the scene where the strike occurred.
No further information is being released at this time.
Dave Procopio
Director, Media Communications
Massachusetts State Police