Parents of Boy Scout killed in lightning strike issue statement of thanks


2 photos
Save Story
Leer en español

Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

SOUTH SALT LAKE — The parents of a South Salt Lake boy who was killed Wednesday in a lightning strike are thanking those who tried to save their son's life.

David Rayborn, 12, died after being struck in the middle of a fast-moving hailstorm at Scofield Reservoir. Fellow Scout Sean Smith, 12, was also struck and injured.

In a statement released Thursday, David's parents, John and Connie Rayborn, called Sean a hero for doing what he could to help their son.

"No words can describe the pain and sorrow that we are feeling due to the tragic loss of our beloved son," they said. "We would like to thank those that tried to render first aid. David was a wonderful, caring boy who will be sorely missed."

Members of the Scout troop from the Granite Park LDS Stake in South Salt Lake were heading to seek cover at their campsite from a hailstorm when the strike happened Wednesday.

Leaders and other Scouts saw the lightning hit David, and emergency responders and a medical helicopter were called to the scene. CPR was performed on the boy, but he was pronounced dead around 12:35 p.m.

In the statement, the Rayborn's said that Sean Smith's parents do not wish to release a statement at this time but that Sean is doing well and resting at home.

Email: emorgan@ksl.com.

Photos

Related stories

Most recent Utah stories

Related topics

Utah
Emiley Morgan
    KSL.com Beyond Series

    KSL Weather Forecast

    KSL Weather Forecast
    Play button