Four Hunters, Dogs Tragically Died After Lightning Strikes

2025 has already been the deadliest year since 2022 for lightning strikes. Just during the month of September, there have been four known deaths along with their dogs. These deaths tragically took place in two separate states just weeks apart. Two separate incidents, but all parties involved were hunters. What is known about their untimely deaths?

Hunters Killed By Lightning

The first two deaths confirmed to be from a lightning strike were two friends who were hunting Elk in southern Colorado. They were Andrew Porter from Asheville, North Carolina, and Ian Stasko from Salt Lake City, Utah. The two 25-year-olds traveled to Colorado for the hunt. They were reported missing on September 11 after not returning from their hunt near the Rio de los Pinos Trailhead in the San Juan Wilderness Area.

It took nearly a week for their bodies to be found. The coroner’s office revealed there were no signs of trauma on either of the men’s bodies. It was later revealed that a lightning strike was to blame for their deaths. One of their fiancées shared that she was told the men died instantly and felt no pain.

Colorado ranks third in the country for lightning strikes.

Two More Die In Untimely Deaths

The second deaths were reported in Florida. It has been confirmed that two hunters, along with their dogs, were killed by a lightning strike. The two men who tragically died were Alexander Karl Getz, 38, and Peter James Stansky, 31. It is believed the men and their two dogs died on the evening of September 22. Their bodies were found two days later after being reported missing by their families.

Sheriff Paul Blackman warned of the dangers of lightning in their area. He said, “Our area gets more lightning than just about anywhere else in the country, especially in the summer. If you can hear thunder, that means lightning is close enough to strike, even if the sky doesn’t look too bad yet. It is essential to pay attention and plan ahead when storms approach.”

Overall, 2025 has already seen 19 deaths across the country due to lightning strikes.

If one finds themselves in a situation where a thunderstorm is brewing, experts recommend seeking shelter and going indoors. Stay away from wired electrical devices and also avoid hilltops and isolated trees.

One should also avoid bodies of water and stay close to the ground if getting inside is not possible.

Taking precautions can help save a life.

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