Ocoee home burns after apparent lightning strike

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A home went up in smoke in Ocoee Tuesday night after authorities say a lightning strike ripped into the roof. 

“It’s smoldering. That was a lightning strike for sure,” a neighbor says in cell phone video. 

Neighbors took video and called 911 for help. 

“I’ve been here almost 30 years and it’s totally tragic,” said neighbor Margie Lavornia.

Neighbors told FOX 35 they felt the ground shake and saw light all around their own houses. Then they saw smoke. Fire officials say the house that was hit is unlivable for at least several weeks. They say the damage in the attic is extensive but fortunately no one was home when the bolt hit. 

“Such a nice family and beautiful home. Never saw it before, hope I never see it again,” said Lavornia.

The Ocoee fire marshal says this time of year, he’s urging people to keep their electrical in check and pay attention to their surroundings.

“You feel a strike like that, you need to be aware not only of your own home but your neighbor’s home. you could save a life or at least the home,” said Ocoee Fire Marshal Shawn Sorenson.  “It’s really a shame.”
No one was hurt in the fire. Red Cross assisted at the scene.