A shocking tragedy struck Vihiga County on Sunday afternoon after a pastor and his assistant were killed by lightning during a prayer session. The two were conducting deliverance prayers for a woman said to be possessed by demons when the incident occurred.
Witnesses said the session was being held in an open field, where several church members had gathered to pray. As the prayers intensified, dark clouds quickly covered the sky, and strong winds began to blow. Within minutes, a loud thunderbolt struck the two pastors, throwing them to the ground as worshippers screamed and scattered for safety.
When the storm calmed, the two pastors were found lying motionless. Attempts by church members to rush them to hospital were unsuccessful, as both had already died from the lightning strike. The woman they were praying for escaped unharmed but was left in shock.
Local administrators and police officers from the area confirmed the incident and later transferred the bodies to the Vihiga County Referral Hospital mortuary. Police said investigations are underway to establish more details surrounding the incident, though it is suspected that the ongoing heavy rains and stormy weather in the region caused the lightning.
The tragedy has left residents of Vihiga in mourning, with many describing the two as humble servants of God who were always ready to pray for others. Community members and church leaders gathered at the church compound on Sunday night to hold prayers and comfort the grieving families.Area leaders have urged residents to avoid holding outdoor meetings and prayers during stormy weather, warning that lightning strikes have become more frequent in recent weeks.
The deaths of the two pastors have brought great sorrow to the faithful, who said the men died doing what they loved most — serving God and helping people in need. Preparations for their burial are underway as the community continues to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss.
