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OGDEN — A Division of Wildlife Resources officer who responded to a lightning strike during the 2012 Utah dove hunt, saving the lives of two hunters, including a 13-year-old boy, was honored recently for his actions.
While patrolling the Rail Trail in Plain City in September, Sgt. Mitch Lane spotted two hunters, ages 30 and 13, trying to reach their vehicle during a downpour. The two were struck by lightning a few hundred feet from the parking lot.
"Two people were literally running toward the parking lot trying to get out of the rain," Lane said at the time. "There was a big flash and a big boom and those two individuals went straight to the ground."
Lane ran to them and found that the boy was in cardiac arrest. With help from Weber County Sheriff's deputy Ryan Read, Lane administered CPR and got the boy breathing, then helped the hunters to safety.
The 13-year-old was in critical condition, and the 30-year-old was in good condition. Both have since made full recoveries.
Lane received a Medal of Valor from the Utah Peace Officers Association for his efforts, as did Read.
Lane has worked in wildlife law enforcement for 20 years. He and Read received their awards at the Utah Peace Officers Association's Midwinter Conference in St. George on Feb. 7.
