Sponsored message
Logged in as
Audience-funded nonprofit news
radio tower icon laist logo
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Subscribe
  • Listen Now Playing Listen
  • Listen Now Playing Listen

This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Downed Power Line Electrocuted Family, Investigation to Take Months

powerlines.jpg
Photo by Salina Canizales via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr

This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.

The investigation into the fallen power line that killed three in their own San Bernardino backyard is under way and "it could be months" before it's clear what happened last week, according to LA Now.Steven Vega, 44, came into contact with a fallen power line in his backyard after a windstorm last week. His wife and 21-year-old son rushed to his aid and were also shocked by the 12,000 volt line. All three were electrocuted.

Southern California Edison investigators are looking into what caused the power line to fall in their yard (as it had three years earlier) and promise "the investigation will be thorough and comprehensive." The California Public Utilities Commission is also involved in the investigation.

Relatives have questioned the quality of repair work done three years ago when a power line fell into the same yard, but "Edison officials refused to comment on the accusations."

The Vegas leave behind two young children who are in the care of friends.

In the wake of this event, Edison is reminding the public about safety surrounding downed power lines. If you see one, stay away and don't touch it. Call Edison or local law enforcement instead.

You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.

Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.

If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.

Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief

Make your tax-deductible donation today