Clear Creek County — A 15-year-old boy from Erie died Sunday after a lightning strike near the summit of Mount Blue Sky, authorities said, and his 13-year-old brother was critically injured and airlifted to a Denver hospital.
What happened
The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office said the strike occurred shortly after 1:20 p.m. Sunday while five people were navigating the mountain's summit area, at about 14,000 feet. Deputies and first responders attempted lifesaving measures on the 15-year-old, identified by family as Levi Strobel, but he could not be revived.
Levi's younger brother, Jace Strobel, 13, was critically injured and transported by air to a Denver hospital. Two adult men sustained minor injuries and were not hospitalized, the sheriff's office said.
“In his final moments, Levi showed the courage and selflessness that characterized his life, seeking to protect his younger brother, who was with him on the mountain,” the family wrote on a fundraising page.
Family response and condition update
The Strobel family issued a tribute describing Levi as devoted and brave. A GoFundMe updated by a family friend noted that Jace “improved throughout the night” after being critically injured and said the family remains hopeful as he recovers.
- Victim: Levi Strobel, 15, of Erie — deceased.
- Injured: Jace Strobel, 13 — critically injured, flown to Denver hospital.
- Other hikers: Two adult men with minor injuries; not hospitalized.
- Location: Summit area of Mount Blue Sky, roughly 14,000 feet.
- Time: Shortly after 1:20 p.m. Sunday, per Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office.
Local impact
The incident reverberates through the tight-knit Erie community and among families who recreate in the high-country. Mountain summits draw residents and visitors statewide; incidents involving severe weather underscore risks that can arise quickly at high elevations.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date/time | Shortly after 1:20 p.m., Sunday |
| Location | Summit area, Mount Blue Sky (~14,000 ft) |
| Deceased | Levi Strobel, 15, Erie |
| Injured | Jace Strobel, 13 (airlifted to Denver) |
Officials did not release additional operational details about the rescue or the condition of the adults beyond their being treated for minor injuries. The sheriff's office is the lead agency for the response.
What authorities and family say next
Investigators typically examine weather conditions, witness statements and location factors after mountaintop emergencies. The Strobel family has asked for privacy while they grieve and focus on Jace’s recovery; the family’s public message emphasized faith and remembrance.
This is a developing story in the region. News Block will provide updates as officials or the family release further information.
