Former Manhattan Beach employee Yuri Botelho was fatally struck by lightning on November 26 while traveling in Peru. 

Botelho, 36, was traveling by bike with a friend and a guide when lightning struck, killing him and critically injuring his friend. He leaves behind his wife and a 15-month-old son. 

Botelho had joined Manhattan Beach's Public Works department in 2022. In July this year, Botelho resigned from the department to accept a position at the city of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, and relocated there with his wife, Kelsey, and their son to be closer to Kelsey's family. 

A native of Brazil, he was extraordinarily proud of being an American citizen, having achieved that milestone in May. 

A statement from the city of Manhattan Beach noted that Botelho had "made a lasting impression on everyone he worked with" during his three years with the city. 

"Yuri will forever be remembered for his smile, ambition, and kindness. This is a tremendous loss for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," said City Manager Talyn Mirzakhanian. "He touched so many lives during his time with us, and his impact will remain with us always. Our hearts go out to Kelsey, Tyson, and all who loved him."