2 New Yorkers struck by lightning while hiking on Colorado peak were saved in record-high state helicopter rescue
Share this @internewscast.com

It was a striking view.

Two men from New York were struck by lightning while hiking a peak in Colorado and were subsequently airlifted to safety, marking what is believed to be the state’s highest-altitude helicopter rescue.

The pair, whose identities have not been released, called for assistance on Thursday at approximately 5 p.m. after deviating from their intended path while trying to ascend Torreys Peak, which is one of Colorado’s tallest mountains, standing at 14,300 feet.

“It appears they lacked significant experience,” said Jack Smith, a spokesperson for the Alpine Rescue Team. He explained that the men decided to scale the peak during a road trip through Colorado.

“I think it was probably just a lack of awareness.”

Emergency crews had just steered the men back on course when they were zapped by lightning minutes later — leaving one hiker unresponsive and in critical condition.

About 30 rescuers ascended the mountain while a Colorado National Guard Black Hawk chopper hoisted the injured man off the peak at 14,200 feet.

He was then rushed to the burn unit of a Denver hospital, where he remains in fair condition.

The helicopter returned around midnight to rescue the other wounded man, briefly touching down on the mountain before he was treated and released from a nearby hospital.

Emergency personnel believe the daring rescue shattered the state’s previous record of 13,700 feet — with such missions a challenge due to thinning air reducing a chopper’s lift at higher altitudes.

The Black Hawk’s max ceiling is around 19,000 feet.

Torreys Peak stands as the 11th-highest summit in Colorado.

With Post wires

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Pink denies separation from husband, sarcastically thanks media for letting her know

Pink Shuts Down Divorce Rumors with Husband, Offers Sarcastic Thanks to Media for the ‘Update

Renowned rock & roll icon Pink was taken by surprise when she…
Alleged Tren de Aragua criminal gang members charged in ATM robberies across New England

Tren de Aragua: New England’s ATM Heists Unraveled as Alleged Gang Members Face Charges

Two individuals, believed to be part of the gang Tren De Aragua…
Met Gala 2026 dress code revealed: 'Fashion is Art'

Met Gala 2026 Dress Code Unveiled: Embracing ‘Fashion as Art

NEW YORK — You certainly don’t need to remind Beyoncé about the…
Fiery explosion destroys Massachusetts home, injures mother and 2-year-old child

Explosive Incident in Massachusetts Devastates Home, Leaves Mother and Toddler Injured

A devastating explosion ripped through a Massachusetts home on Wednesday morning, severely…
CIA makes social media push to recruit Iranians as Trump threatens military action

CIA Launches Social Media Campaign to Attract Iranian Recruits Amid Rising Tensions

WASHINGTON — In an effort to reach out to Iranians, the U.S.…
Horrific video shows the moment suspected gangster kills tourist with single karate chop

Shocking Footage: Suspected Gangster Fatally Strikes Tourist with Single Karate Chop in Disturbing Incident

**Caution – Graphic Content** A chilling video has surfaced showing the shocking…
'Should be a means test'

Is It Time for a Means Test? Exploring the Debate

Intense scrutiny was directed at New York City’s rent regulation laws during…
Adorable video shows mama bear taking shelter under Lake Tahoe cabin with her newborn cubs

Heartwarming Moment: Mama Bear and Newborn Cubs Find Cozy Refuge Under Lake Tahoe Cabin

Prepare to be charmed by some irresistibly adorable cubs! A heartwarming video…
Federal judge rejects request to block Trump White House from building its $400 million ballroom project

Federal Judge Upholds $400 Million Trump White House Ballroom Project, Denying Opposition Request

A federal judge has dismissed a bid by a preservationist group seeking…
Today in History: February 26, Trayvon Martin shot to death

Remembering Trayvon Martin: Reflecting on the Impact of February 26, 2012, Tragedy

Today marks Thursday, February 26, 2026—day 57 of the year, leaving 308…
Shia LaBeouf posts $100K bond, ordered to attend rehab after Mardi Gras arrest

Shia LaBeouf Released on $100K Bond and Directed to Rehab Following Mardi Gras Incident

Shia LaBeouf, the well-known actor, has been released on a $100,000 bond…
Rev. Jesse Jackson: Mourners, dignitaries pay respects to civil rights icon on 1st day of visitation at Rainbow PUSH HQ in Chicago

Civil Rights Icon Rev. Jesse Jackson Honored by Mourners and Leaders at Chicago’s Rainbow PUSH Headquarters

CHICAGO — Emotional tributes began pouring in for the late Rev. Jesse…