In a tragic incident, three hockey players, including two siblings, were killed and two other youths were seriously injured due to lightning strikes at a village in Sundargarh district on Sunday afternoon.
According to sources, the incident occurred at Sankarbahal village under Talsara police station at around 4 pm, where a hockey match was underway.
When rain started with lightning, five organisors of the tournament, who also play hockey, identified as Sushanta Gauda, Sumanta Gauda, Rabi Nayan Tanti, Jaharu Tanti and Maheswar Tanti ran towards a tree for cover.
At this time lighting struck at the five and Sushanta Gauda, Sumanta Gauda and Rabi Narayan Tanti died on the spot while Jaharu Tanti and Maheswar Tanti were seriously injured. Sushanta and Sumanta were brothers. All five are residents of Sankarbahal village.
After the incident, all the five youths were rushed to Sundargarh District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) where doctor declared Sushanta, Sumanta and Rabi Narayan as brought dead. Inured Jaharu and Maheswar were admitted in hospital and were receiving treatment. Their health condition is reportedly critical.
Meanwhile, a pall of gloom descended on the village.