A Florida couple survived a lightning strike while walking along a central Florida trail thanks to the swift actions of nearby good Samaritans. Aaron Walenga, 48, and his wife Clare Walenga, 43, were walking hand in hand on the West Orange Trail on September 2 after dropping their children off at church when a lightning bolt struck them.

The couple’s rescue involved four members of a weekly running club who were in the vicinity at the time of the incident. Charlotte Sachetti Weyand and Amber McManus quickly called 911, while Michael Weyand noted that Clare Walenga’s skin had turned blue and immediately performed CPR. Their intervention was critical in stabilizing Clare until emergency responders arrived. Aaron Walenga was hospitalized following the strike but both were ultimately saved.

Tiffany Roby, also present at the scene, described the moment as extraordinary, acknowledging the multiple “miracles” involved in the couple’s survival. The Walengas expressed their gratitude for the help they received and reflected on the value of life after the traumatic event.

The couple has been married for 17 years, and their experience highlights the importance of immediate medical response in lightning strike cases, which can be life-threatening even to seemingly healthy individuals. Emergency responders urge bystanders to call professional help promptly while administering first aid if trained.

No further updates on the couple’s condition have been released. Authorities continue to warn the public to exercise caution during storms, especially in outdoor areas like trails where lightning risk is significant.