Meshell Foxworth was likely on a break outside the Lufkin IHOP restaurant where she worked, when a lightning strike ended her life late Tuesday night.

Witnesses said Foxworth was holding an umbrella when lightning entered her upper torso, then exited through her feet.  She was initially coherent moments following the strike, and was transported to Woodland Heights Medical Center with severe burns, and was awaiting ambulance transport to an out of area trauma center when she died.

According to the U.S. National Weather Service, on average, 73 people lose their lives to lightning strikes each year, with no safe place to hide outside, and you should stay indoors for at least 30 minutes following the last clap of thunder.

Meshell Foxworth was only 32 years old and leaves behind a little boy.

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