RUTLEDGE, Tenn. (WATE) — A lineman with Appalachian Electric Cooperative was electrocuted on July 23 while crews were working to install a new service in Grainger County.

A release from AEC explained that crews were working to install the service at 9:20 a.m. when an “electrical contact occurred on site.” Crew members began life-saving measures and called EMS for the injured lineman, who was taken to Morristown-Hamblen Hospital. The lineman did not survive.

“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 circumstances that led to the “electrical contact” are under investigation by AEC, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, and various other local agencies that responded to the scene.

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“Safety is and will continue to be our number one priority,” said Compton.

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