In a devastating turn of events, Missouri dairy farmer Jared Blackwelder lost 32 cows after a sudden lightning strike hit his property in Texas County. The tragedy occurred early Saturday morning as Blackwelder finished his daily milking routine.

“It was so bright, I could barely see,” he recalled. Hours later, he discovered the heartbreaking scene—his cows, huddled together during the storm, had been killed instantly. A veterinarian confirmed that all 32 died on the spot.

The farming community quickly rallied behind him. The Wright County Missouri Farm Bureau’s Facebook post about the tragedy went viral, drawing thousands of comments and messages of support from around the world.

Each of the cows, certified organic, was valued between $2,000 and $2,500, amounting to a financial loss of over $60,000. While insurance may cover part of the damage, Blackwelder admits recovery will take time.

Despite the tragedy, the farmer remains grateful that 120 of his cows survived. His organic milk business, Organic Valley Coop, continues to serve local markets—proof of his resilience amid unimaginable loss.

“They weren’t just cows—they were my life,” he said.