Lightning Strike Sparks House Fire in Lingleville

LINGLEVILLE, TX – Aubrey and Fredrick Broadbent are facing extensive damage to their home after a lightning strike during severe storms on Sunday, May 10 caused a house fire at their residence on Highway 219 in Lingleville.

Aubrey Broadbent, who is 34 weeks pregnant with the couple’s first child, was inside the home when she saw a bright flash outside the window. Soon after, she discovered water flooding the master bedroom and believed the home had been struck.

Within minutes, smoke began pouring from the end of the house. Aubrey’s mother arrived and warned her the home was on fire, prompting the family to evacuate. Relatives rushed in briefly to rescue the family’s animals and retrieve essential belongings before thick smoke made it unsafe to remain inside.

Emergency crews responded and Aubrey was checked by ambulance personnel to ensure she and her unborn baby were unharmed.

While the exterior damage appears minimal, the inside of the home suffered heavy smoke, fire, and water damage, including the couple’s master bedroom and the newly completed nursery prepared for their baby girl.

The Broadbents believe lightning struck an outdoor water spigot, traveling through copper piping, bursting the line and triggering an electrical fire. The home is expected to require extensive repairs, including rewiring and replacement of electrical components.

Donations to assist the family can be made through Cash App at $FredBroadbent or this GoFundMe link.