Lightning Strike Sends Four to Local Hospital

Four people were injured Sunday when lightning struck their car.

At around 4:30 p.m. Sunday, 34 year-old Brian McDowell of Mattoon, Il was driving westbound on the I-24, Exit 16 off ramp when his vehicle was struck by lightning causing the electrical system to malfunction.
 
McDowell and 3 passengers, 38 year-old Jade McDowell, 11 year-old Grace McDowell and 17 year-old Paige Krutsinger, all of Mattoon, IL, were taken to Lourdes Hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries.
 
McCracken County Sheriff's Department were assisted on scene by Mercy Regional EMS and the Reidland Fire Department.