Body of hiker found after lightning strike, fall
Jul 18, 2026, 1:52 PM | Updated: 7:31 pm
A hiker who was struck by lightning and then fell from the east summit of Twin Peaks has died. Salt Lake County Search & Rescue provided this photo of the area on Saturday, July 18, 2026. (Courtesy: Salt Lake County Search & Rescue)
(Courtesy: Salt Lake County Search & Rescue)
ALTA, Utah — Salt Lake County officials said search and rescue crews found the body of a hiker who fell after being struck by lightning Saturday in the Twin Peaks area above Snowbird and Alta ski resorts.
In a message posted to Facebook, Salt Lake County Search and Rescue confirmed the lightning struck the hiker on the east peak of Twin Peaks.
“We would like to thank Snowbird Ski Patrol for assisting with the safe escort of the patient’s hiking partner off the mountain,” the agency wrote. “We also extend our appreciation to DPS (the Division of Public Safety) for their skilled aviation support and assistance throughout the incident.”
The DPS helicopter helped locate the victim after the call came in. Salt Lake County officials say they were able to reach the victim’s body after the storm cleared.
“Our sincerest condolences go out to the individual’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” the agency said.
There was no word Saturday on the identity of the victim. However, the Lightning Safety Council had already updated its website with the fatality, identifying the victim as a 59-year-old man.
