A bicyclist met a tragic end on Tuesday night in North Park, Pittsburgh, after coming into contact with downed power lines on a trail near Olympia Grove. Emergency crews responding to the scene at 8:22 p.m. found the man lifeless among the live wires.
Due to the active power in the area, first responders were unable to immediately reach the victim. Duquesne Light crews were called to the scene to cut power, which was accomplished at 10:30 p.m. The man was then pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Allegheny County police, a call reporting the downed wires had come in earlier that day at 8:40 a.m. Police, fire, EMS, and park maintenance crews were dispatched to the area, and Duquesne Light was contacted at 8:51 a.m.
County officials had closed the trail and placed caution tape near the wires and at the main entrance of the trail following the initial report.
The victim’s identity has not been released at this time.
In a statement to Channel 11, Duquesne Light expressed their deep sadness over the tragic accident and extended their condolences to the victim’s family. The company is working closely with local emergency responders and park officials to investigate the incident.
The power lines in the area have been deenergized and removed. Duquesne Light also noted that storm restoration efforts continue throughout the region following Monday evening’s storms and the ongoing heat wave, urging the public to avoid all downed wires and call 9-1-1 immediately if they encounter any.
The tragic loss of life serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by downed power lines and the importance of exercising extreme caution in their presence.
wpxi.com
