Lightning strikes four people near the White House

The two men and two women were at Lafayette Park in Washington, DC, when they were hit by a violent storm, fire officials said.

Because of the park's proximity to American presidency headquarters, members of the secret service were among the first persons to help victims whose identity has not yet been confirmed.

The lightning struck four people near a tree near the fence surrounding the White House complex Thursday evening.

All four have critical, life-dangering injuries. We were able to treat and transport all four patients to hospitals in the area”, fire officials said.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether they knew each other and what they were doing before the lightning hit.

After the incident, part of the park remained closed, with emergency services on the scene.

The National Weather Service had issued a storm warning in this area Thursday evening.

Lafayette Square is a seven-acre public park north of the White House. It is often filled with visitors, especially during the summer. /A2 CNN