Saragur: A farmer, who was taking shelter under a tree from rain, was killed when lightning struck the tree at Hullemala village in the taluk yesterday.

The deceased farmer is Muthaiah (68), a resident of Hullemala village. Muthaiah was working in the fields when rain accompanied with gusty wind began to lash. To prevent himself from getting drenched, Muthaiah took shelter under a tree when lightning struck the tree killing Muthaiah on the spot.

Saragur Police, who rushed to the spot, shifted the body to Saragur General Hospital, where post-mortem was conducted and the body was handed over to the family members. Saragur Police have registered a case.