By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

At least six people were killed, while 17 others were injured, after they were struck by lightning yesterday afternoon at Sitio Baras-barasan in Barangay Manlocajoc, Sipalay City.

Authorities identified the fatalities as 35-year-old Mary Tejoc; along with five minors, Mariel Montecino, 12; Charlene Seminion, 12; May Ann Seminion, 9; Ardemiel Seminion, 10; and Rose Seminion, 5.

According to Sipalay City Councilor Dionilo Bugtae, the victims were working in the sugarcane fields when they experienced a sudden downpour.

The victims temporarily stopped working and sought shelter by a nearby tree, which was later struck by lightning.

The victims were immediately rushed to the Sipalay City Health Office, where the six fatalities were declared dead on arrival.

The injured were meanwhile transferred to the Merceditas J. Montilla District Hospital; while one was rushed to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, reported to be in critical condition.

As of press time, police and rescue personnel are still trying to identify the injured./DGB, WDJ