A mother who was killed by a lightning strike on Thursday while she and her child were taking cover from a thunderstorm, was identified as the wife of an Orlando Sanford Airport Police Officer.
Nicole Tedesco was identified by Orlando Sanford International Airport authorities on Friday, less than 24 hours after she and one of her two daughters were caught in a thunderstorm at Trotwood Park in Winter Springs.
According to police, lightning hit a nearby tree, energized the area, and struck Tedesco and her 10-year-old daughter, Ava. Although Ava was transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital and is in good physical condition, her mother did not survive.
Tedesco’s husband, Andrew, has worked in law enforcement for over two decades and has been employed as a Sanford Airport Authority Police Officer since April of 2021.
“Although his career has been dedicated to public services, the true center of Andy’s world is his family. He describes Nicole as a wonderful wife, loving mother, and faithful friend whose absence will be felt by many. Andy loves riding go-karts with Ava and her eight-year-old sister, Gia,” reads a statement from the airport authority.
A GoFundMe has been established to help the family with ongoing expenses. Visit the Nicole Tedesco Memorial GoFundMe event page to contribute.