Staten Island, N.Y. – On Thursday afternoon, Thomas Fahmy, a member of U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis’ Staten Island office, was suddenly hit by a bolt of lightning while walking to his vehicle. The dramatic moment was captured on a nearby home’s doorbell camera, showing Fahmy collapse after a flash of light illuminated the street.
Despite feeling an “intense burning sensation” with tingling, numbness and severe pain in both feet, Fahmy never lost consciousness. He managed to rise, limp toward a nearby residence and call for help. “I heard ‘help me, help me,’ so I ran to my door and saw him on the ground,” said Stephanie Homan, the homeowner who rushed to his aid.
Medical response and recovery
Paramedics transported Fahmy to Northwell Staten Island University Hospital, where doctors monitored him overnight. He suffered no visible burns or major injuries and was released the following day after observation.
Community and faith response
Rep. Malliotakis released a statement expressing relief, thanking the good Samaritan and the hospital staff. “We are grateful that Thomas, a member of my congressional staff, is alive and well after being struck by lightning,” the congresswoman said.
Fahmy, who describes himself as a man of faith, said the experience reshaped his outlook. “Just to appreciate life, smile and breathe fresh air once in a while and don’t let life overwhelm you,” he reflected.
Lightning safety context
Lightning strikes are rare but deadly events. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports roughly 37 million strikes each year, with less than one in a million people being hit. While about 90% of those struck survive, the incident underscores the importance of seeking shelter during storms and the value of community vigilance.
Recent reports across the country have highlighted similar incidents, including a fatal strike on a father jet‑skiing in Florida and a mother and toddler struck while walking in Margate, Fla. These events serve as a reminder to stay alert to weather warnings and to act quickly when emergencies arise.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
