"There were reports from family members that he may have been intoxicated. We believe he climbed those lines very quickly. Whether or not he came into direct contact with the lines is yet to be determined," said Capt. Tommy Rutledge of the Gwinnett County Fire Department.
Fire officials said the man scaled the metal scaffolding and was zapped by the powerful electrical field generated by the high-voltage lines. Firefighters said the man's pant leg was ensnared on the line and the man was left dangling. Crews had to find a way to rescue the man without risking electrocution themselves.
"The high-voltage lines were still charged at that time. So, the power company had to respond to the scene and do what they could to de-energize those lines just to allow our personnel to get close enough," said Captain Rutledge.
When the power was finally shut off, firefighters were able to cut the man down and lower him to safety, to the great relief of anxious family members and friends who were waiting on the ground. "We were just all praying and trying to keep each other uplifted and make sure everything was fine," said the man's sister, Jessica Lathem.
Fire officials said the man was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital and treated for first and second degree burns as well other injuries he sustained from the fall. Firefighters estimated the man was hanging upside down for over two hours.
With news video.
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