Utah Teen Struck By Lightning In Maryland Beach

PARK CITY, Utah (AP) -- A Utah teenager is recovering in a Maryland hospital after being struck by lightning on a beach.

Conner Benson, a June graduate of Park City High School, had just finished sailing with his girlfriend and another friend Wednesday near Annapolis, Md., when the bolt hit nearby, knocking him and his friend to the ground.

Benson's grandmother, Sandy Goble of Murray, told KUTV-TV that he's in a medically-induced coma, and doctors are keeping his body cooled to reduce the chance of brain damage.

She says they likely won't know the extent of the 19-year-old's injuries until he's brought out of the coma.

Conner was in Maryland visiting his girlfriend's relatives and pursuing a work internship.

His girlfriend, Jaimie Martin, escaped serious injury.

Family members have created a webpage to provide updates on Benson's condition.
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