Lightning struck in a park close to the White House in Washington, D.C., killing three people and gravely wounding another.
Emergency services received a call about people who had been found hurt in Lafayette Park at 6:52 on Thursday night.
Nearby U.S. Secret Service personnel and U.S. Park Police officers gave the four injured victims immediate help.
Vito Maggiolo of D.C. Fire and EMS claims that neither the strike nor any of the vehicles or property were damaged.
It's probable that the four were struck while they were close to a tree during the severe downpour, according to Maggiolo, who talked with NPR.
James Mueller, 76, and Donna Mueller, 75, both from Janesville, Wisconsin, were pronounced dead early on Friday, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.
A victim who was an adult male and 29 years old was declared dead on Friday.
A woman who was the fourth victim, according to the police, was in critical condition. They didn't immediately reveal who they were.
"The horrible death brought on by the lightning strike in Lafayette Park saddens us.
We think about the families who lost loved ones and pray for those still fighting for their life
"White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre released a statement.
Maggiolo advised residents to stay inside during storms. "If you see lightning or hear thunder,
you should take cover inside a building or a moving vehicle. Do not try to find cover under a tree, "added he.