Teen Recounts Near-Death Experience After Possible Lightning Strike

Just two weeks ago, 19-year-old Conner Benson was in a medically-induced coma after he and a friend were knocked unconscious by what may have been a lightning strike. Now Benson is sharing the details of his near death experience.

Benson and 23-year-old Alex Steele were possibly struck by lightning in Annapolis, Md. July 10 while attending a party on a beach along the Severn River.

"All I remember is taking off my socks and shoes... the rest is blank," Benson said.

Two doctors happened to be attending the same party and resuscitated Benson and Steele, stabilizing them until paramedics arrived. Benson and Steele spent two days in medically-induced comas at the Anne Arundel Medical Center.

"I had a really vivid dream I was with my [late] grandfather playing basketball," Benson said.

Benson said he experienced some hallucinations as he gradually regained consciousness. He said he now has a new appreciation for life and the loved ones who almost lost him.

"I never wanted to think that could happen, because it didn't. I got to say, 'Hello,' and I love them," Benson said. "I have a lot of guardian angels."

Ron Steele, Alex’s father, said it is a miracle how the two have progressed.

Earlier this month, Anne Arundel County Fire officials said they couldn't confirm the source of their injuries, because the men had no outward physical injuries, such as burns, to link to a lightning strike.

MORE ON NBCWASHINGTON.COM

Contact Us