Brazilian-Born U.S. Engineer Killed by Lightning During High-Altitude Bike Descent Near Machu Picchu

Overview

• He was identified as 36-year-old Yuri Pereira Botelho, struck during a sudden storm on November 26 in the Cusco highlands.
• Local police reported the group had reached about 4,237 meters with guide Dani Peralta before beginning the descent.
• Friend James Alexander Fernández, 41, was found injured and taken to a regional hospital, and the guide did not suffer serious injuries.
• Botelho lived in the United States for seven years, worked as a municipal engineer in St. Louis, Minnesota, and leaves a wife and a 1-year-old son.
• His father shared a final photo and public farewell as mourners in São Mateus held a memorial service.