INSTANT DEATH Strikes Hunters – Nobody Saw Coming

Two young elk hunters died instantly from a lightning strike in Colorado’s wilderness, reminding outdoor enthusiasts that even experienced Americans exercising their traditional hunting rights face unpredictable natural dangers beyond government control.

Story Snapshot

Andrew Porter, 25, and Ian Stasko, 25, killed instantly by lightning while elk hunting in San Juan Wilderness
Conejos County coroner officially confirmed lightning as cause of death after six-day search operation
Colorado ranks third nationally for lightning fatalities, highlighting risks for outdoor recreation enthusiasts
Both men were experienced hunters who did nothing wrong, according to family statements and coroner findings

Instant Death Confirmed by Colorado Coroner

Conejos County Coroner Richard Martin officially confirmed that lightning killed Andrew Porter of Asheville, North Carolina, and Ian Stasko of Salt Lake City, Utah, both 25, during their elk hunting expedition in Colorado’s San Juan Wilderness. The coroner found both men had slight burns consistent with lightning strikes and determined they died instantly without suffering. Porter’s fiancée, Bridget Murphy, emphasized that the hunters “didn’t do anything wrong” and “didn’t feel fear or pain” in the tragic accident.

Timeline of Tragic Hunting Expedition

The experienced outdoorsmen were last heard from on September 11, 2025, while hunting in the remote wilderness area. Severe thunderstorms rolled through the region on September 12, believed to be when the lightning strike occurred. Family members reported them missing on September 13 after they failed to return as planned. Saguache County Search and Rescue teams found their bodies on September 18, approximately two miles from the trailhead near Trujillo Meadows Reservoir in Conejos County.

Colorado’s Lightning Danger Zone

Colorado ranks as the third-highest state for lightning fatalities nationwide over the past decade, making it particularly hazardous for hunters, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who value America’s natural heritage. The state’s mountainous terrain and high elevation create perfect conditions for sudden, deadly storms. In May 2024, lightning killed a rancher and over 30 cattle in Jackson County, while El Paso County has recorded 10 lightning-related deaths since 1980, demonstrating the persistent threat to those who work and recreate outdoors.

Communication Failures Hamper Rescue Efforts

The hunters’ satellite communication device malfunctioned during the trip, preventing them from calling for help when storms approached and complicating search efforts for their families. This equipment failure highlights the importance of reliable emergency communication gear for Americans venturing into remote wilderness areas. The incident serves as a sobering reminder that even prepared, experienced hunters can face circumstances beyond their control, despite following proper protocols and exercising their constitutional right to hunt on public lands.