Fatal Accident in Portland During Ice Storm
On Wednesday, a power line fell on an SUV in northeast Portland, Oregon, during an ice storm, leading to the deaths of three people and injuries to a 2-year-old child. The severe weather conditions made roads and highways in the Pacific Northwest hazardous. Emergency services received frantic calls about the incident shortly before noon.
The Incident Unfolds
According to the city’s fire department, a fallen tree branch caused the power line to collapse onto the SUV. Amid the chaos, a bystander managed to rescue the child from one of the victims lying on the street. Unfortunately, firefighters found two adults and one teenager dead upon arrival, while the toddler was rushed to the hospital.
Details of the Tragedy
Reports indicate that the victims were electrocuted when they exited the vehicle. OregonLive noted that the power line was pinned down by a large tree branch, with the victims found about 35 feet from the SUV. The power company later deenergized the line, though the specific company was not mentioned.
Eyewitness Account
Daniel Buck, a resident nearby, described hearing an explosion and seeing a person running from the car with a burning power line on top of it. He saw the individual and two others on the ground, with one victim’s pant leg on fire. Buck stated that all three were in contact with the live wire, preventing anyone from helping them. “It was just terrible,” he remarked, noting that the victims were residents of a nearby apartment.
Conclusion: The Devastating Impact of the Ice Storm
This tragic incident highlights the severe dangers posed by ice storms, which can lead to catastrophic accidents and loss of life. The Portland community mourns the loss of these individuals, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness during extreme weather conditions.