Congressional aide survives lightning strike in New York

A staffer for Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.) miraculously survived after being struck by lightning in New York last week just steps from his car.

Thomas Fahmy told NBC that he was walking along Todt Hill in Staten Island when he was struck just 15 to 25 feet from his vehicle.

The incident was captured on surveillance video , which shows Fahmy suddenly collapsing to the ground after feeling what he described as an intense shock to his body.

“This very intense burning sensation. Tingling, numbness, pain, severe pain, in both my feet,” he told NBC.

Fahmy was conscious throughout the incident, and managed to stand up and walk toward a nearby home for help. Stephanie Homan, who lives nearby, said she heard him pleading for aid.

“I heard, ‘Help me, help me,’ so I ran to my door and saw him on the ground,” Homan said.

Fahmy was taken to Staten Island University Hospital, where doctors monitored his condition overnight. He did not suffer any burns or other major injuries and was released the following day.

Fahmy has worked as a staffer in Malliotakis’s Staten Island office since 2022. The New York Republican said Monday that she and her staff were relieved by his recovery.

“We are grateful that Thomas, a member of my congressional staff is alive and well after being struck by lightning last week,” Malliotakis said in a statement Monday . “I thank the good samaritan who ran to his aid and the medical staff at Staten Island University Hospital who treated him.”

Fahmy, who described himself as religious, said the close call gave him a new perspective on life.

“Appreciate life, smile and breathe fresh air once in a while and don’t let life overwhelm you,” he said.