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July 29, 2008

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Spartanburg, SC- Eight men suffered minor injuries after lightning struck the ground on a northern Spartanburg County peach orchard in which they were working Tuesday.

The men had been working in a field in the Cooley Springs area, but as the weather worsened, they headed toward their vehicles for shelter. The lightning bolt struck the red dirt at their feet shortly after 6 p.m.

Six men were taken to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center for medical evaluation and treatment. Two workers were treated at the scene, but declined further medical attention, said Tony Phillips, assistant Chief of the Cooley Springs -Fingerville Fire Department.

Injures appeared to be confined to minor burns and blisters of the feet, as well as some numbness and tingling sensations to the legs.

James Cooley, owner of Cooley Peach Farms and Strawberry Hill USA near Chensee, said the workers, were harvesting peaches on his property at the time.

"The storm came up, and they waited it out in the van," Cooley said. "When the storm was over, they got out and started working again, The rain was over, and the sun was shining when the lightning hit."

Cooley said his workers were awake and responsive and were taken to the hospital for further examinations.