Man killed in North Park after coming in contact with live, downed wires

Police lights
Police lights Photo credit Getty Images

A 63-year-old cyclist was killed last night on a North Park trail near Olympia Grove.

Allegheny County Police say Robert Anderson of Wexford came into contact with downed power lines around 8:30 p.m. and was electrocuted.

First responders could not reach the body until 10:30 p.m. because the wires were still live

Utility crews were called to cut the power in the area of the trail near Pearce Mill Road.

The downed wires were first reported after 8:30 in the morning Tuesday and Duquesne Light was contacted before 9 a.m.

Caution tape was reportedly set up around the area near the downed wires alerting people to the danger.

Hollie Geitner with DLC released the following statement:

At approximately 8:30 p.m., Duquesne Light Company (DLC) was notified that a bicyclist came into contact with live electrical wires on a bike trail near Pearce Mill Road in North Park.  The individual was electrocuted and has passed away. We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time.

We are working closely with local emergency responders and park officials to investigate the incident.

The lines in that area have been deenergized and cut away. Storm restoration continues throughout the region following Monday evening’s storms and the ongoing heat wave.  Please avoid all downed wires and call 9-1-1 immediately.

In investigation is underway.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images