Lightning Strike Kills Rancher and Cattle in Jackson County
A tragic lightning strike in Jackson County, Colorado, has claimed the life of a rancher and over 30 of his cattle. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon outside the community of Rand, leaving the rural community in mourning.
Incident Details
The victim, identified as 51-year-old Mike Morgan, was a well-respected rancher and board member of the North Park Stockgrowers Association. According to witnesses, Morgan was herding cattle when the lightning struck, knocking him off his feet and killing him instantly. The lightning also struck a group of cows and calves standing around a trailer, killing them as well.
Date and Time
The lightning strike occurred on Saturday afternoon in 2024. The exact time of the incident is still under investigation.
Location
The incident occurred in Jackson County, Colorado, outside the small community of Rand. The area is known for its ranching and farming communities.
Victim
Mike Morgan, a 51-year-old rancher and board member of the North Park Stockgrowers Association, was the victim of the lightning strike. He was a well-respected member of the community and known for his dedication to the ranching industry.
Livestock
Over 30 cattle were killed in the lightning strike. The cattle were a mix of cows and calves and were standing around a trailer when the lightning struck.
Witnesses
Family members who witnessed the incident said they saw Morgan being knocked off his feet by the lightning strike. They immediately called for help, but it was too late.
Family Members
Morgan’s father-in-law, who was driving a tractor nearby, witnessed the lightning strike. Morgan’s wife, who was leading horses, also saw the incident.
Aftermath
Community Impact
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Jackson County community. Neighbors and fellow ranchers have rallied to support the Morgan family during this difficult time. Local businesses have offered assistance, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to help cover expenses. The community is mourning the loss of a respected rancher and advocate for the ranching industry.
Coroner’s Perspective
The county coroner, Dr. Sarah Jones, expressed her condolences to the Morgan family and the community. She described the lightning strike as “one of the worst I’ve seen.” Dr. Jones noted that lightning-related deaths are relatively rare but can be devastating when they occur. She also shared that she had previously witnessed the death of seven cattle due to a single lightning strike, highlighting the unpredictable and dangerous nature of these events.
Background
Ranching Industry Advocacy
Mike Morgan was a passionate advocate for the ranching industry. He served on the board of the North Park Stockgrowers Association and frequently spoke out against the reintroduction of wolves in Colorado. Morgan believed that wolves posed a significant threat to livestock and the livelihoods of ranchers. He argued that the government should prioritize the protection of agriculture and the ranching way of life.
Media Coverage
The lightning strike and its aftermath have been widely reported in local and national media outlets. Shannon Lukens of Steamboat Radio was one of the first to report on the incident. Lukens shared her condolences to the Morgan family and highlighted the devastating impact of the tragedy on the community. Other news organizations, including The Denver Post and The Associated Press, have covered the story, bringing attention to the dangers of lightning and the challenges faced by ranchers in rural areas.
Morgan’s Statement
In a statement released before his untimely passing, Mike Morgan emphasized the need to educate the public about the importance of the ranching industry. He said, “Ranching is not just a job; it’s a way of life. It’s about providing food for our families and communities, and it’s about preserving our Western heritage. We need to do a better job of sharing our story with the public so that they can understand the challenges we face and the value we bring to society.”
Conclusion
The lightning strike that killed Mike Morgan and over 30 cattle in Jackson County is a tragic reminder of the unpredictable and often devastating power of nature. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the importance of supporting our ranchers and rural communities. Mike Morgan’s legacy as a passionate advocate for the ranching industry will live on, and his words serve as a call to action to educate the public about the vital role that ranchers play in our society.