SAD! Lightning strikes Kagadi school, one pupil dead, eight injured

Kagadi: Tragedy struck Kyabasara Primary School in Pachwa Sub-county when lightning struck the school during a heavy downpour, killing one pupil and injuring eight others.

The deceased has been identified as Mary Atugonza, a Primary Seven pupil, who died instantly during the strike as evening lessons were underway Thursday evening.

Eyewitnesses say the storm came without warning, catching the school community off guard. The injured pupils were rushed to Kyabasara Health Centre III, where they are currently receiving treatment for various injuries, including burns and shock.

Everest Mujobe, the school’s security guard, described the horrific scene: “We heard a loud thunderstorm after a bolt of lightning struck. One child died on the spot while the others were quickly taken to Kyabasara Health Centre III,” he said.

At the health facility, survivors expressed their shock and gratitude for being alive, though many are still recovering emotionally and physically from the incident.

Bangirana Benon, the LC1 Chairperson of the area, confirmed the tragic event and said that the police have launched investigations: “It’s true, one child died instantly while eight others were rushed to the health centre. Police have been notified and are handling the case.”

This is the latest in a series of lightning-related incidents in the Bunyoro region. Just last month, William Dramadi, 21, from Nsambya Village in Bikonzi Sub-county, Masindi District, was killed by lightning as he sought shelter during a morning drizzle.

In a similar incident on April 23, 2025, lightning struck two grass-thatched houses in Kyakasozi Cell, Bigando Ward, Kigulya Division in Masindi Municipality, igniting a fire during a heavy downpour. A resident, Steven Wamani, described the ordeal as terrifying and said it left many residents shaken.

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