Rutledge, TN (WOKI) A multi-agency investigation is underway in Grainger County following the death Tuesday morning of a crew member with Appalachian Electric Cooperative.
AEC representatives say crews were working in Grainger County around 9:20 a.m. when “an electrical contact occurred on the site.” The person involved was reportedly taken to Morristown-Hamblen Hospital but later died.
Representatives added that the situation is under investigation.
“AEC is a close-knit organization that doesn’t just provide power to our members and the community; we’re part of the community. Today, we lost one of our fellow AEC family members and this tragedy is felt by everyone,” said Josh Compton, AEC’s General Manager. “Working as a lineman is a respectable and honorable profession. We mourn the loss of our colleague during this incredibly difficult time. Their family is in our thoughts and prayers.”
The death is being investigated by AEC, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA), OSHA and other agencies.