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Human error cited in Wash. firefighter’s power-line shock

Utility company linemen believed the wire was dead when they gave the all clear to firefighters

By Tyler Richardson
The Tri-City Herald

BENTON COUNTY, Wash. — Benton Public Utility District officials say human error was a factor in an accident that sent a Benton County volunteer firefighter to the hospital.

Ty N. Schoenwald, 22, was shocked by a downed power line Wednesday while helping fight a small wildfire on Game Farm Road in Finley.

In a news conference Thursday morning, officials said two PUD linemen visually inspected the downed line and gave clearance for firefighters to enter the scene.

Full story: Update: PUD gave clearance before firefigher shocked by powerline