Florida mother and 2-year-old daughter struck and killed by lightning

Margate, Fla. — A Florida family is grieving and planning two funerals after a mother and her 2‑year‑old daughter were struck and killed by lightning. Kameron Glasgow said he was only steps away when the bolt hit his wife, Kenya Glasgow, 31, and their 2-year-old daughter, Kennedi, as the family tried to get inside during a fast‑moving storm.

“Words can’t describe that feeling,” Kameron Glasgow told Local10.

A family is grieving

The strike happened around 2:30 p.m. Sunday, August 23 as thunderstorms intensified over Margate. Police and fire rescue crews found Kenya and Kennedi on a sidewalk near Northwest 1st Street and immediately began CPR. Both were rushed to nearby hospitals but were pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Witnesses described a sudden flash, loud crack, and orange glow that shook nearby homes. One neighbor said he saw both victims lying on the ground moments after the strike. Another witness told CBS Miami he saw the toddler lying a few feet from her mother.

Weather data showed more than 200 lightning strikes within 20 miles of Margate during the hour of the incident. Meteorologists said the storm formed quickly and produced dangerous cloud‑to‑ground lightning.

Family Planning Two Funerals

Glasgow said he felt the current move through his legs as he ran toward his wife and daughter. He told reporters the loss is devastating, especially for Kennedi’s twin sister, Kensli, who remained in the car. He said he is trying to stay strong for her as the family prepares for two funerals.

Relatives described Kenya as a devoted mother who balanced work and family with ease. They said Kennedi was energetic, curious, and deeply bonded with her twin. The couple would have marked four years of marriage in November.

GoFundMe and Community support

A GoFundMe created to help the family has raised more than $72,000, according to the fundraising page. Organizers said the money will cover funeral costs and provide ongoing support for Kensli. They encouraged people to share the campaign and keep the family in their thoughts.