A 13-year-old boy, Ifeanyi Matthew Ebere, has died after being struck by lightning during a thunderstorm in Owerri, leaving his family and community in deep mourning.

The deceased, a Junior Secondary School 1 student of Emanda College, Owerri, reportedly went to the school premises on Saturday evening with friends to watch a football match when heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms began.

According to eyewitness accounts, the boys sought refuge inside a classroom as the weather worsened. Moments later, lightning reportedly struck the building, fatally hitting Ifeanyi.

He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Speaking after the incident, the boy’s father, Kelechi Ebere, recounted receiving an urgent phone call informing him of the tragedy before returning home to confirm the devastating news.

He described the visible impact of the lightning strike, stating that the injuries sustained by his son were severe.

The tragic incident has renewed public concern over safety measures during thunderstorms, particularly in schools and open environments where people may be exposed to lightning risks.

Health and safety experts have continued to warn that lightning strikes are more likely to affect elevated structures, trees, masts, and open spaces during storms.

Experts advise individuals to immediately seek shelter inside enclosed buildings during thunderstorms and avoid standing near tall objects or remaining outdoors during severe weather conditions.

Medical professionals also note that lightning strikes can cause cardiac arrest and other fatal complications due to disruption of the body’s electrical system, highlighting the importance of emergency response knowledge such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

The teenager was reportedly buried the same day, adding to the grief and shock experienced by his family and members of the community.