Contractor killed after coming into contact with overhead equipment, causing electrical fire in Northern Macomb County

(WWJ) — A contractor has died on the job after while doing work for DTE on Thursday afternoon, leading to a massive electrical fire and emergency response in Northern Macomb County.

The incident happened near an electrical facility in the area of Powell Road and 32 Mile Road, according to WWJ's Tim Pamplin, who reported the fire was extinguished around 2:30 p.m.

The Macomb County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as a 61-year-old man.

A DTE spokesperson said the contractor "came into contact with overhead equipment and was fatally wounded."

"We send our love and support to his family and loved ones. Our teams are currently on the scene, working with first responders and local officials to assist with the investigation," a statement from DTE said.

Pamplin reported crews were installing new power lines northbound along Powell towards 33 Mile on Thursday. The victim was driving a vacuum truck as part of the operation and the truck's boom arm came in contact with some energized power lines, killing him instantly and engulfing the truck in flames.

"After that happened, power lines started dropping around the area, starting fires," Pamplin said, noting there were multiple grass fires, including one near Romeo airport.

People who work and live in the area told the WWJ Newsroom they heard "a large boom" when the incident happened.

As of 6 p.m., Powell remained closed in both directions between 32 Mile and 33 Mile. The sheriff's office said the intersection at 32 Mile and Powell Road will be closed temporarily for DTE to run power lines and drivers are being told to seek an alternate route.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest updates as they become available. >>> LISTEN LIVE!

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