FLORENCE, Ala. — Florence Police report that a Florence Police officer was struck by lightning while putting barricades out.
Officer James Piteo was struck while placing barricades at the intersection of Chisholm Rd and Gresham Rd due to flooding. According to Florence police, a Ranger riding with Officer Piteo and other officers were able to provide immediate first aid. Piteo was rushed to NAMC in the back of a police vehicle, attended by paramedic. The officer received medical treatment and is still sore but, doing good.
Officer Piteo and the Florence Police Department would like to thank everyone for their kind words and prayers.
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The barricades were being placed at the intersection of Chisholm Rd. and Gresham Rd. Other Florence Police Officers provided immediate first aid and transported him to NAMC where he is being monitored. He is conscious and responsive at this time.
Florence police Deputy Chief Mike Holt said that the officer is being kept overnight for observation but is in good spirits seems to be doing well for a person who was just struck by lightning.
Holt also says that the afternoon flooding has receded, but could become an issue again if more rain comes.
From Florence Police via Twitter:
Florence police Deputy Chief Mike Holt s
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