BOX ELDER COUNTY — Officials have released the identity of the 24-year-old Ogden man who was killed after lightning struck his boat while on a fishing trip with his brother and friend. Skyler Granath died after being thrown into the Bear River early Sunday morning.
Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Cade Palmer said 911 dispatch operators received reports of a boat that was struck by lightning while carrying Granath and two other men who were fishing on Bear River in Corinne just after midnight on Aug. 18.
The boat reportedly capsized after being struck, throwing all three occupants into the water.
Palmer said two of the men were able to swim to shore and were then transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Granath went under the water and could not be located.
A search ensued, involving the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office, Box Elder County Search and Rescue, Box Elder County SCUBA Team, Corinne Fire Department, Brigham City Fire Department, Utah Parks and Recreation, Coast Guard, and the Department of Public Safety Aero Bureau.
Around 5:30 a.m. Granath’s body was recovered using sonar and rescue divers.
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the two survivors, who suffered injuries consistent with lightning exit wounds, are expected to recover.
Granath’s wife, Maddie posted on social media about her husband dying in the “freak accident.” She said, “Skyler was the best dad, the best husband, brother, son, and friend.”
Chief Deputy Palmer said the thoughts of the sheriff’s office are with Granath’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Granath leaves behind his wife, young daughter and unborn child. A GoFundMe account is being set up to help the family.