A St. George contractor lightning strike along Interstate 15 left a local driver without his work vehicle and tools, but the terrifying incident ended with an inspiring show of family generosity.
Sudden Strike Disables Vehicle on I-15
Casey Pettus was driving northbound toward Cedar City during worsening storm conditions when his rear driver-side tire began rapidly losing pressure. Pettus was planning to take an exit just one mile ahead to visit a tire shop while speaking with his brother on the phone.
During that call, lightning struck the truck directly. The electrical charge instantly cut all power to the vehicle, leaving Pettus without power steering as heavy rain poured down. Relying on muscle memory, Pettus guided the coasting truck to the highway shoulder. Within five seconds of stopping, smoke began pouring out of the dashboard and passenger side.
St. George Contractor Lightning Strike Destroys Equipment
Pettus safely exited the cab with his phone, wallet, and keys, but was forced to leave thousands of dollars in professional tools behind. A passing dump truck driver pulled over and ran toward the scene carrying a fire extinguisher. Concerned for the bystander’s safety, Pettus waved the driver away to prevent anyone from getting hurt if the truck exploded.
Within five minutes, the white smoke turned black and the vehicle became completely engulfed in flames. While Pettus escaped without injury, his essential work equipment was completely destroyed in the fire.
A Son’s Generous Gesture
Hours after the St. George contractor lightning strike, Pettus returned home to his family. While sitting out on his deck, his 9-year-old son handed him a large wad of saved cash. The young boy had earned the money by running a small neighborhood business pulling out trash cans, saving up for his dream dirt bike.
Instead of keeping his savings, the 9-year-old offered all of his money to help his father buy replacement tools. Pettus declined the cash, reassuring his son that insurance would cover the lost equipment, while expressing immense gratitude for his son’s selfless gesture during a difficult moment.
