NEWS MEDIA INFORMATION REPORT
SUBJECT OF RELEASE: Accidental Electrocution at a Crash Scene
DATE AND TIME: Approximately 5:55 P.M on Saturday, December 17, 2022
LOCATION: Greenville Road north of Peck Road, Montcalm Township
AUTHORITY/CONTACT PERSON: Sheriff Michael Williams
At approximately 5:55 P.M. on Saturday, December 17, 2022, a man was accidently electrocuted at a crash scene on Greenville Road north of Peck Road in Montcalm Township.
The Sheriff’s Office was sent to a police a crash on Greenville Road where a driver lost control of their vehicle due to poor road conditions and struck a utility pole. The pole was broken in two causing power lines to hang low across Greenville Road and the roadway had to be shut down for safety concerns. The deputy continued investigating the crash, and Consumer’s energy was requested to take care of the down power line. Unbeknownst to the deputy, a nearby resident walked to the crash scene. The resident spoke with the driver of the vehicle and proceeded closer to the crash. The driver of the vehicle warned the resident of the downed power line but believed the resident did not hear the warning. The resident walked out onto Greenville Road and came into contact with the downed lines.
The deputy was first alerted to the electrocution when he witnessed a flash of light and saw the man fall to the ground. The deputy ran to the man and found him unconscious. The deputy determined the man was no longer in contact with the downed power line and drug him away from the lines. The deputy immediately began CPR and continued until Montcalm County Emergency Medical Services arrived and took over lifesaving efforts. Troopers with the Michigan State Police arrived and assisted with the life saving efforts. The man was transported to Spectrum United Health Hospital in Greenville.
The man, identified as a 72-year-old Greenville resident, was later transported to Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids where he remains under their care.
In addition to Montcalm County Emergency Medical Services and the Michigan State Police, the Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Montcalm County Central Dispatch and Montcalm Township Fire Department.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to stay clear of crash scenes due to safety hazards.
