A man was electrocuted Friday in Fayette County while apparently attempting to cut wire from active electric lines, according to state Trooper Kalee Barnhart.
Christopher Cottrell, 32, of New Salem, was pronounced dead on Laurel Hill Road in Dunbar.
Barnhart said Cottrell was found with a pole saw and backpack just after 7 a.m. He was not employed in any official capacity, according to Fayette County Coroner Dr. Bob Baker. Cottrell’s death was ruled an accidental electrocution.
Barnhart said tampering with active electrical lines can be dangerous and result in serious injury or death.
“High-voltage electrical lines can always remain energized and should never be approached or handled by unauthorized individuals,” she said.